Indian para-archer Sheetal Devi equalled the world record and set a new Asian record in the women’s compound qualification round at the ongoing Para Asian Games, scoring 704 out of a possible 720 points at Okazaki Chuo Sogo Park Multipurpose Square in Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture.
The 19-year-old surpassed the previous Asian record of 698 by six points, delivering a commanding performance as India began its para-archery campaign at the Games.
Compatriot Payal Nag also impressed in the qualification round, scoring 675 points to finish joint fifth in the standings. Her performance placed two Indian archers among the leading contenders in the women’s compound event.
Payal has established herself on the international para-archery circuit, winning gold medals at the 2026 World Archery Para Series in Bangkok. She has also defeated Sheetal in international competition, highlighting India’s strength in the category.
Sheetal, meanwhile, has built an impressive record in international para-archery. She won gold in the women’s compound individual event at the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou and secured a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. She has also claimed a world championship title.
Her qualification score of 704 puts her in a strong position ahead of the elimination rounds, with the qualification standings determining seedings for the knockout stages.
Having equalled the world record and established a new Asian benchmark, Sheetal will aim to carry her momentum into the medal rounds.
India will also look to Payal to build on her qualification performance as both archers seek podium finishes at the Aichi-Nagoya Games.
Published: Monday, 19 October 2026 | 5:57 PM IST