On the occasion, Pawan Kumar, the first differently-abled archer from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir participated in this prestigious international event, was also honored for his commendable representation. Additionally, Abhilasha Chaudhary, Archery Coach of the Shrine Board, who accompanied the Indian Para Archery contingent during the championship, was felicitated in recognition of her dedicated contribution to the sport.
The Chief Executive Officer honored the archers with mementos and Chunri of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji as a token of divine blessings and appreciation. He lauded the participants for their indomitable spirit and extended heartfelt wishes for their continued success in forthcoming international competitions.
The CEO stated that the Shrine Board, under the visionary directions and guidance of the Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lieutenant Governor, JK-UT), Shri Manoj Sinha remains steadfast in its commitment to encouraging youth and providing them with a robust platform to showcase their talents. He further emphasized that the Shrine Board’s Sports Complex is being developed as a Centre of Excellence and urged sportspersons to take optimum benefit from the state-of-the-art equipment and other facilities made available at the Sports Complex.
A recipient of the prestigious Arjuna Award-2024, Rakesh Kumar has consistently showcased remarkable talent and dedication at both national and international levels, bringing laurels to the nation and to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
Pawan Kumar trained at the Shrine Board’s Sports Complex, hailing from Village Dansal in Katra, was extended financial assistance of ₹7 lakh by the Shrine Board to facilitate his participation in the prestigious Para World Archery Championship–2025. He has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, discipline and determination in the field of archery. His representation at the international level marks a significant milestone for both the Shrine Board and the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, placing the region prominently on the global map of para sports.
Also present on the occasion were Additional CEO, Shri Alok Kumar Maurya; Assistant CEO, Shri Dhruv Gupta and officers of the Shrine Board.