Excelsior Sports Correspondent
KATRA, Sept 17: In a proud moment for Jammu & Kashmir, Pawan Kumar, a differently abled archer from the SMVD Sports Complex, Katra, has been selected to represent India at the Para World Archery Championship 2025, to be held from September 20 to 29 in Gwangju, South Korea.
To support his participation, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has extended financial assistance of Rs 7 lakh. Trained under the Shrine Board’s Sports Initiative, Pawan has shown remarkable determination and talent despite visual impairment, earning his place on the national para archery team.
This achievement marks a significant milestone for both Pawan and the Union Territory, bringing global recognition to the region’s para sports development efforts.
Sachin Kumar Vaishya, CEO, SMVDSB, reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent. He noted that the SMVD Sports Complex has already produced two Arjuna Awardees – Rakesh Kumar and Sheetal Devi – who have excelled internationally in para archery.
The Sports Complex currently trains over 150 young athletes across various disciplines. Its Archery Academy is also accredited under the Khelo India program, further highlighting its role in fostering excellence in sports. Present at the occasion were Satish Kumar Sharma, Joint CEO, Dhruv Gupta, Assistant CEO and the athlete’s family members.
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