Devanshi makes her International Air Rifle debut for India at Czech and Germany; first Sikkimese to do so

SINGTAM, MAY 21: Devanshi Agarwal, a Sikkim-born teenage shooting talent, participated in her first International Tournament held in the Czech Republic and Germany. In her 10 m Air Rifle Women Junior, she bettered her own personal achievement with 612.8 points and secured 34th position at the International Shooting Competition (under 21) at Hanover, Germany, held on May 3-12. 

She was one of the youngest participants (aged 15) in the tournament, which featured 96 participants from 38 different countries. Earlier, at the 50th Grand Prix of Liberation held in Plzen, Czech Republic, she scored 608.5 points.

Speaking from her hometown, Singtam, Devanshi says it was her proudest moment to wear the Indian jersey and play for the country. That moment cannot be described in words. Shooters from all over the world had proudly dressed up in their respective jerseys. It was ecstatic to see all of them. The skills and tricks which they use were another reason to cherish, all of them trying their level best.

In the Czech Republic, it was an open championship; there were no age categories, so that made it more exciting. In Hanover, I was in the under 21 category, it was a little difficult for me to adjust to that new range but it gradually defended, she further added.

She shared her experience while participating in her first International. There was a huge difference in the competitions held in India and abroad; firstly, there were more shooters and some better ones, too. The difference I felt was the system of organization, she said.

In the Air Pistol Junior Women category, another Sikkimese talent, Tusitta Rai, scored 517 points, securing 46th position. Both Devanshi Agarwal and Tusita Rai studied at Ecole Globale International Girls’ School, Dehradun. Shiv Lal Dogra, School Head Coach, also accompanied them to the two tournaments. Both the shooters achieved the distinction of becoming the first from Sikkim to represent India at an International event.