Odish archery phenomenon Payal Nag has qualified to represent India in the prestigious Asian Para Games and the World Archery Para Series. The Asian Para Games 2026 is scheduled to be held at Aichi–Nagoya, Japan from 18 to 24 October 2026, while the World Para Series Stage-2 will be held in the Czech Republic from 28 June to 4 July 2026.

A quadruple amputee, Payal secured her place in the Indian squad by finishing second in the womens compound event of the 2nd Assessment Trial, which was organised by Archery Association of India at SAI National Centre of Excellence in Sonipat, Haryana from May 19 to 21.

The 18-year-old para Odisha archer, who hails from Balangir district, created history by winning two gold medals at the World Archery Para Series in Bangkok, Thailand earlier in April this year. She bagged one of the two gold in women compound open individual event, defeating India legend and world champion Sheetal Devi. Earlier, Payal and Sheetal claimed the gold in womens compound team event.

Sheetal also qualified for both Asian Para Games and the World Archery Para Series. Odisha Archery Association secretary Sampurnananda Das congratulated Payal for making it to the Indian squad and wished her a grand success in the upcoming competitions.

“The remarkable journey from adversity to international success has made Payal an inspiration for millions across the country. The entire archery fraternity of Odisha and India is proud of her outstanding achievement and wishes her grand success in the upcoming Asian Para Games and the World Para Series. May she continue to bring laurels to the nation with her dedication, courage, and determination.”