Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya felicitated the Indian contingent for their stellar performance at the Bangkok 2026 World Archery Para Series, where India emerged as the undisputed champion, securing top spot on the medal table with an impressive haul of 13 medals—seven gold, three silver, and three bronze. The event, held from March 30 to April 4, 2026, in Thailand, saw participation from 21 countries and 113 athletes, with strong contingents from Asia and the Pan-American regions. Indonesia finished second with six medals, while Thailand claimed five.
The 39-member Indian team, including 21 athletes, five coaches, three support staff, and ten escorts, delivered a dominant display across various categories. Their success was backed by government support through the Annual Calendar for Training and Competition (ACTC) under the Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSF) Scheme, with funding of Rs 1.04 crore for participation and Rs 20.51 lakh for the preparatory camp.
Standout performers included Toman Kumar, who clinched three golds in Compound Men Open, Mixed Team, and Men Team events. Sheetal Devi secured two golds (Mixed Team and Women Team) along with a silver in Women Open. Payal Nag, recognized as the world’s first quadruple amputee para archer, won two golds in Women Open and Women Team categories. Other notable contributions came from Padma Shri awardee Harvinder Singh (one gold and one silver), Shyam Sunder Swami (one gold and one bronze), Bhawna (one gold and two bronzes), Swati Chaudhary, Rajshri Dhanraj Rathod, and Vijay Sundi.
The felicitation ceremony in New Delhi was attended by senior officials from the Archery Association of India, including Secretary General Virendra Sachdeva and Gautam Abrol. Athletes and coaches shared inspiring stories, highlighting the pride of representing India and the emotional high of seeing the national flag raised and anthem played multiple times. Sheetal Devi expressed satisfaction with the arrangements and India’s commanding presence, while coach Abhilasha Chaudhary emphasized India’s growing global recognition not just in sports but across various domains. Shyam Sunder Swami noted that rival nations closely monitored Indian entries, anticipating tough competition.
Minister Mandaviya congratulated the team warmly, stating, “I congratulate you for not just topping the medal tally but also for winning double the number of medals than the second country. When you win, it is never an individual victory—it is the country that wins, and every Indian feels proud of your achievements. You represent the spirit of New India.” He underscored the government’s commitment to para-athletes through structured funding, world-class training facilities, and increased international exposure. Mandaviya also raised expectations for the upcoming Asian Games, urging the athletes to maintain their momentum and hard work to further elevate India’s sporting legacy.
This performance reinforces India’s rising stature in para-archery and para-sports overall, showcasing resilience, dedication, and the impact of targeted support programs. As the contingent reflects on their Bangkok triumph, the focus now shifts to sustaining this excellence on bigger stages, inspiring the next generation of Indian athletes.
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