Kondagaon, December 2, 2024 In the heart of Bastar, once synonymous with insurgency, a new identity is emerging—one of sporting excellence. Kondagaon’s Sushila Netam has made her mark yet again by qualifying for the National Archery Championship after an exceptional performance in the 24th State-Level Senior Archery Tournament held at the Khelo India Koduram Verma Archery Center in Raipur. The national tournament is set to take place from December 15 to 20 in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand.
A Journey That Began in Class Eight
Sushila, a resident of Botiknera village, began her archery journey in eighth grade. Currently pursuing college education while staying in a post-matric girls’ hostel, she balances academics and rigorous training. She recalls her early struggles, saying:

“In the beginning, I knew little about archery. My first match did not meet expectations, but with encouragement from family and teachers, I worked hard to improve.”
Overcoming Challenges
The road to success was not easy for Sushila, especially with limited access to equipment and resources. The district administration and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police stepped in, providing essential gear like bows, arrows, shoes, and tracksuits.
Her first national-level experience in Nagpur was challenging due to health issues caused by travel excitement, affecting her performance. However, Sushila learned from the experience, refining her skills and gaining resilience.
Key milestones in her journey include:
- 2019-20 Senior Nationals: Qualified but missed a medal.
- June 2023 Khelo India Tournament: Secured a bronze medal, boosting her confidence.
- 2024 State-Level Championship: Secured a spot in the national team.
Inspiration and Family Support
Sushila draws immense inspiration from her family. Her father passed away during her childhood, leaving her mother, a homemaker, and her elder brother, a farmer, to support her aspirations despite financial challenges.
“My family didn’t understand archery initially, but once I started competing, they encouraged me wholeheartedly,” she shared.
A pivotal moment in her journey was meeting Olympian Deepika Kumari during her eighth grade. That encounter ignited her dream of representing India on the Olympic stage.
Balancing Sports and Studies
Sushila’s daily routine reflects her discipline and dedication:
- Morning: Archery practice.
- Daytime: College classes.
- Evening: Ground practice.
- Night: Academic studies.
“I dedicate most of my time to archery but ensure my studies remain on track,” she added.
The Impact of Khelo India Centers
The establishment of Khelo India mini-centers in the district has been a game-changer, providing aspiring athletes with professional training, modern equipment, and advanced facilities. These centers aim to nurture local talent and elevate them to national and international platforms.
Aiming for the Olympics
Sushila’s dream of representing India at the Olympics is now within reach, thanks to her relentless dedication and the support of her family and mentors. She serves as an inspiration for youth in Kondagaon, proving that perseverance can turn challenges into triumphs.
“Success in sports requires discipline, hard work, and self-confidence,” Sushila concluded. Her journey is a beacon of hope for others in the region, embodying the transformative power of sports.

Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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