New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced Paralympian Rakesh Kumar as a National Icon for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), alongside Paralympic bronze medalist Sheetal Devi. Both were felicitated for their outstanding performance at the Paris Summer Paralympics 2024, where they won a bronze medal in archery. The event took place at Nirvachan Sadan, where Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, honored the athletes.
Sheetal Devi, who was accompanied by her mother Shakti Devi and coaches Abhilasha Chaudhary and Kuldeep Kumar, was warmly received by the Commission. CEC Rajiv Kumar praised both archers, emphasizing their commitment to inspiring youth and PwDs to engage in the democratic process. He noted that as young athletes from Jammu and Kashmir, they will work to enhance voter participation, particularly in the upcoming Assembly elections in their home state.
During his address, CEC Rajiv Kumar lauded their courage and determination, stating that disability should not be seen as an obstacle but as an opportunity to develop strengths. He highlighted Sheetal Devi’s remarkable achievements, including becoming India’s youngest Paralympic medalist at the age of 17, as well as her role in motivating both youth and PwDs to take part in the electoral process. EC Shri Gyanesh Kumar and EC Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu also praised the athletes, noting that their journeys are a source of inspiration for many, especially PwDs.
At the event, Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar shared their extraordinary stories of perseverance and success, from small towns in Jammu and Kashmir to the international stage of the Paralympics. The audience was captivated by their dedication to both sports and voter awareness.
Sheetal Devi was previously announced as an ECI National Icon for PwDs on March 16, 2024, just before the General Elections to Lok Sabha 2024. Her accomplishments include gold medals in both Individual and Mixed Team events at the 2023 Asian Para Games, a silver medal at the 2023 World Archery Para Championship, and other accolades at the Asian Para Championship. Shri Rakesh Kumar, who was announced as a National Icon today, has represented India in archery at the Tokyo and Paris Paralympics. His achievements include a gold medal in the mixed team event at the 2023 World Archery Para Championship and multiple medals at the 2022-23 Asian Para Games.
Meanwhile, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), J&K, Pandurang K Pole, also lauded the ECI for recognising Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar for their extraordinary journeys from the small towns of Jammu & Kashmir Union Territory.
