*SMVDSB Sports Complex enhances skills of Paraathletes
Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, Sept 11: In an inspiring event at Nirvachan Sadan, Paralympian archery champions Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar were honoured as national icons by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to promote voter awareness among Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, felicitated the athletes for their remarkable achievements, including a bronze medal win in archery at the Paris Summer Paralympics 2024.
Arjuna Awardee Sheetal Devi, accompanied by her mother Shakti Devi and coaches Abhilasha Chaudhary and Kuldeep Kumar, was received, along with her mixed doubles team partner Rakesh Kumar. Their appointment as ECI national icons reflects their inspiring journey and commitment to motivating both youth and PwDs to actively participate in the democratic process.
In his address, CEC Rajiv Kumar lauded the athletes from Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting how they would now team up to increase voter participation, especially in the upcoming Assembly elections in their home region. He emphasized that their courage and determination serve as a beacon of hope, showcasing that disabilities can be transformed into strengths.
Sheetal Devi, India’s youngest Paralympic medallist at 17 has earned gold medals at the 2023 Asian Para Games and silver at the 2023 World Archery Para Championship. Rakesh Kumar, a seasoned archer, has represented India at the Paralympic Games in Tokyo and Paris, securing numerous accolades, including gold at the 2023 World Archery Para Championship. Their stories of perseverance and resilience have now taken on a new dimension as they join hands with ECI to encourage PwD voter participation nationwide.
Pertinently, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex has profoundly impacted the development of athletes like Sheetal and Rakesh, largely due to the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the Chairman of the Shrine Board, and CEO Anshul Garg. Their commitment has been crucial in enhancing the complex’s facilities and providing vital support to athletes.
Over the past 8 to 9 years, the Shrine Board has invested Rs 2.5 to 3 crore annually to improve sports infrastructure and support emerging talent. This initiative, which began with Ajeet Kumar Sahu in 2017, has seen continued progress under successive officers, resulting in notable achievements, including athletes making their mark in the Paralympics.
Paralympian Rakesh Kumar, who serves as the Assistant Coach at the complex, and Sheetal Devi, a trainee receiving a monthly scholarship of Rs 10,000 along with accommodation, are shining examples of the benefits of this investment. Sheetal has also been assured a job with NHPC upon turning 18, further supporting her future prospects.
Adding to this success, the complex has benefited from the expertise of a coaching couple from the Tata Archery Academy in Jamshedpur. Former national champions, they have been with the Shrine Board for over five years. Their specialized training and dedication have played a crucial role in developing athletes like Rakesh Kumar and Sheetal Devi, contributing significantly to their international success.
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