Odia para-archer Payal Nag strikes double Gold in national championship

In an inspiring performance at the 6th National Para Archery Championship held in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Payal Nag from Odisha made her State proud by securing a Gold Medal, sources said on Monday.

The competition saw Payal surpassing her role model, Paralympic medallist Sheetal Devi, to clinch victory in the women's compound category, achieving a notable double gold.

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Despite the significant challenge of overcoming the loss of an arm, Payal was motivated to pursue archery after being inspired by the videos of Sheetal Devi, a celebrated Olympian.

Interestingly, the championship win marks Payal's triumph over her own adversity and her inspiration, and it has brought accolades from various sections of society.

Chief Minister Mohan Majhi was among those who extended heartfelt congratulations. He took to X (formerly Twitter) to appreciate Payal's exceptional success, bringing attention to her remarkable achievement.

Writing for the Gold girl, the Chief Minister stated in Odia, “Extending my heartfelt good wishes to Odisha’s pride and gold medalist in 6th National Para Archery Championship, held in Jaipur city of Rajasthan, Payal Nag who won by the virtue of her relentless determination, sincerity, and efforts.”

“Despite her physical challenges, she had been instrumental in achieving her success today. I pray to the Almighty for her bright future,” the Odisha CM further said.

A resident of Bolangir district Laxmi Singh expressed, “In the initial days, we were very much perturbed over her (Payal’s) physical challenges and were unable to find a way to make her stand. Thanks to the erstwhile District Collector Chanchal Rana.”

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“In 2022, Collector Rana sent me some videos of Sheetal and motivated the girl. He had the desire to support her to become an Olympian,” the woman resident added.

When contacted, Payal stated, “My parents work as migrant workers. When they were in Raipur, I lost my hands and legs after coming in contact with a live wire. However, I have a strong desire and believe that I can do everything.”