India made a golden start to the 2026 Hyundai World Archery Para Series in Nové Město, Czech Republic, as Sheetal Devi and Shyam Sundar Swami won the Para Compound Mixed Team gold medal. The Indian duo defeated Indonesia 147-143 in the final to secure the country’s first gold of the tournament.
Their latest triumph adds to India’s growing success in para archery and further strengthens the reputation of two of its most accomplished compound archers. No official statement from the organisers or the Archery Association of India had been released at the time of writing.
Golden Start for India
Sheetal Devi and Shyam Sundar Swami held their nerve in the final, producing a composed performance to defeat Indonesia by four points.
Their victory continues India’s impressive run in international para archery, following a strong showing at the opening leg of the Hyundai World Archery Para Series in Bangkok earlier this year, where India won 16 medals, including seven golds. The latest gold medal also reflects the pair’s growing chemistry as a mixed compound team on the world stage.
Sheetal Devi’s Inspiring Rise
Hailing from Jammu and Kashmir, Sheetal Devi has become one of India’s most celebrated para athletes despite being born without arms due to a rare congenital condition. Using her feet, shoulder and jaw to shoot, she stunned the sporting world with her performances at the 2022 Asian Para Games, where she won multiple medals.
Since then, the teenager has consistently excelled on the international circuit, winning medals at World Archery events and earning widespread admiration for redefining what determination and skill can achieve.
Shyam Sundar Swami’s Consistency
Rajasthan’s Shyam Sundar Swami has established himself as one of India’s most dependable compound para archers through years of consistent performances. A regular member of the national team, he has represented India at several international competitions, including multiple editions of the Asian Para Games, and has secured podium finishes at World Archery Para Series events.
His calm temperament and precision under pressure have made him a key figure in India’s rise as a global contender in para archery.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Every medal won by a para athlete represents far more than sporting excellence—it reflects resilience, inclusion and the power of equal opportunity. The journeys of Sheetal Devi and Shyam Sundar Swami show how talent can flourish when determination is matched with the right support.
As India celebrates another international triumph, sustained investment in accessible sporting infrastructure and grassroots development can help many more athletes realise their potential. What more can be done to ensure India’s para athletes receive the recognition, opportunities and support they truly deserve?
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SHEETAL DEVI & SHYAM SUNDER SWAMI WINS THE GOLD AT WORLD ARCHERY PARA SERIES 🏅
— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) July 3, 2026
The India duo defeated Indonesian Pair 147-143 in the Compound Mixed Final of Nove Mesto!
WELL DONE! 🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/bcgna812Sw
