Bokaro: 13-year-old Kritika Kumari, a promising young archer from Vedanta ESL Archery Academy, has made Bokaro proud by winning a silver medal in the Under-14 category at the ongoing 68th National School Games in Nadiad, Gujarat. A Class 9 student from Siyaljori, Kritika’s remarkable achievement on the national stage has brought her considerable recognition, with over 60 top young archers from across the country participating in the event.
Kritika, who has been training at the Vedanta ESL Archery Academy for the past two years under coach Bhudeshwar Murmu, impressed the judges with her skill and focus, showcasing the results of her consistent hard work. Her dedication, combined with the academy’s world-class training, helped her clinch this prestigious honor and made her one of the standout performers at the national level.
The Vedanta ESL Archery Academy, located on the premises of Vedanta ESL in Siyaljori, was established in 2020 as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to fostering sportsmanship and community development. The academy has been instrumental in providing aspiring archers from the rural areas of Bokaro district with state-of-the-art training and resources. Since its inception, the academy has earned an impressive record of 185 medals in various national, state, and district-level competitions.
Kritika, a student at SM High School, Siyaljori, joined the academy in November 2022. Under the expert guidance of Coach Bhudeshwar Murmu, she quickly honed her archery skills, winning multiple medals, including two at the prestigious Vedanta Challenge Trophy. Kritika’s success in the School Games is a testament to her dedication and the academy’s robust training program.
Commenting on Kritika’s achievement, Mr. Kunal Daripa, Head of CSR at ESL Steel Limited, expressed pride in her success. “We are extremely proud of Kritika for winning a silver medal at the 68th National School Games,” he said. “Her success is just the beginning. Kritika is already preparing for the NTPC All India Archery Championship, and we are confident she will continue to excel. At ESL Steel, we remain committed to expanding the Vedanta ESL Archery Academy, increasing resources, and furthering the development of young athletes like Kritika. Our goal is to nurture more talent from Bokaro district and take the academy to new heights, ensuring that Bokaro’s name shines brightly on the national stage.”
The Vedanta ESL Archery Academy has not only helped local athletes like Kritika achieve success but has also become a hub for promoting sports and talent in the region. With plans to expand its reach, increase national-level participation, and further develop its training modules, the academy is poised to continue its role in fostering the next generation of archery champions.
