ECI honours Paralympic archers Sheetal Devi & Rakesh Kumar as national icons for PwDs

Jammu, Sept 11: Paralympic archery champions Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar have been honoured as national icons for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) by the Election Commission of India (ECI). The recognition was conferred during a ceremony held today at Nirvachan Sadan, where Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, felicitated the athletes for their exceptional achievements.
Sheetal Devi, who is celebrated for her victory in the bronze medal match at the Paris Summer Paralympics 2024, was joined by her mixed doubles partner Rakesh Kumar. The Commission announced Rakesh Kumar as the ECI National Icon for PwDs during the event.
The ceremony saw a warm reception for Sheetal Devi, her mother Shakti Devi, and her coaches Abhilasha Chaudhary and Kuldeep Kumar. CEC Shri Rajiv Kumar highlighted the significance of these icons in promoting inclusive and accessible elections. He emphasized that Devi’s achievements are a source of inspiration for both youth and PwDs, encouraging them to participate actively in the democratic process.
In his address, CEC Kumar praised the athletes’ determination and resilience, stating, “Like in their game, these archers from Jammu and Kashmir will team up to enhance voter participation, particularly in the upcoming Assembly elections.” He underscored that principles of equality and equity turn disability into an opportunity for developing additional strengths.
Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar lauded the paralympians for their inspiring journey and their potential to boost voter engagement among PwDs. EC Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu commended their dedication and urged them to continue serving as role models.
Sheetal Devi, who was previously announced as an ECI National Icon ahead of the Lok Sabha 2024 elections, made history as India’s youngest Paralympic medallist at the age of 17. Her accolades include gold medals at the 2023 Asian Para Games and multiple awards at the Asian Para Championship and the World Archery Para Championship.
Rakesh Kumar, now recognized as the National Icon for PwDs, has represented India in Paralympic archery events in Tokyo and Paris. His achievements include gold medals in the mixed team event at the 2023 World Archery Para Championship and the Asian Para Games 2022-23, as well as silver medals in individual and team events at the same championships.