Maharashtra’s Prathika shines with four golds as sub junior national archery championship in Itanagar

The 42nd NTPC Sub Junior National Archery Championship concluded in Itanagar with a spectacular performance by Maharashtra’s young archer Prithika Pradeep, who won four gold medals across different categories, emerging as one of the standout performers of the event. 

The championship, held at Yupia, marked a significant milestone for Arunachal Pradesh as it hosted the tournament for the first time.

Arunachal Pradesh Sports Minister Kento Jini, accompanied by Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Minister Ojing Tasing, Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Vishakha Yadav (IAS), Sports Director Tadar Apa, Arunachal Archery Association President Tadar Niglar, and several other dignitaries, attended the closing ceremony and distributed prizes to the winners in the compound archery section. 

Speaking to the media, Jini said the successful conduct of the championship was made possible due to the support and encouragement of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who has been instrumental in promoting sports and nurturing young archers in the state.

The championship’s inaugural ceremony on November 23 was graced by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, adding grandeur to the opening of the Sub Junior National Archery (Boys & Girls) Championship 2025. 

The event was also attended by Chau Zingnu Namchoom, Advisor to the Sports Minister; Arunachal Olympic Association President Taba Tedir; AOA Secretary Bamang Tago; Arunachal Pradesh Football Association Secretary Kipa Ajay; Sports Director Tadar Appa; and Chairman of the Sports Authority of Arunachal John Neelam, among other prominent officials.

Punjab’s archer Abhijot Singh also delivered an impressive performance, clinching a gold medal with a remarkable score of 713 out of 720 in the compound 50–50 metres category.

Expressing her joy after winning four gold medals, Prithika told India Today that she was grateful for the excellent arrangements and facilities provided by the organising committee and the Arunachal Pradesh Sports Department. She praised the hospitality and efficiency that made the event memorable for all participating athletes.