Sheetal Devi is an 18-year-old Indian athlete born without arms who has defied expectations by becoming the first para archer to earn a spot on the country's able-bodied national team.

How did Sheetal Devi overcome her disability to become an archer?

Sheetal Devi developed innovative techniques to load, lift, and release the bow using only her toes and legs, including a custom-made release aid system that allows her to trigger the arrow's release with her jaw.

Home / Sports / Armless Archer Shatters Barriers, Earns Spot on India's National Team

Armless Archer Shatters Barriers, Earns Spot on India's National Team

Q: What is Sheetal Devi's recent achievement?

Sheetal Devi recently finished third among 60 archers in the compound women's trials for the upcoming Asia Cup in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, making her the first Indian para archer to qualify for the able-bodied national team.

11 Nov, 2025

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Summary

18-year-old Sheetal Devi born without arms, shoots arrows with her toes
First Indian para archer to qualify for able-bodied national team
Developed innovative techniques to load, lift, and release bow with her feet

Armless Archer Shatters Barriers, Earns Spot on India's National Team

In a remarkable feat, 18-year-old Sheetal Devi has become the first Indian para archer to qualify for the country's able-bodied national team. Born without arms, Sheetal has spent the last four years honing her archery skills, developing innovative techniques to load, lift, and release the bow using only her toes and legs.

Last week, Sheetal finished third among 60 archers in the compound women's trials for the upcoming Asia Cup in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This historic achievement is a testament to Sheetal's natural core strength, frugal innovation, and the support of her dedicated coaches and trainers.