In a stunning display of talent, determination, and hard work, Chikita Taniparthi from Telangana has captured the world’s attention by becoming the first Indian female compound archer to win the Under-21 individual gold medal at the 2025 World Archery Youth Championships held in Winnipeg, Canada. Her remarkable journey from a small village in Telangana to the global stage is an inspiring tale of perseverance, family support, and excellence in sports.
Key Highlights of Chikita's Unprecedented Achievement
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Chikita clinched the gold medal in the compound individual category by defeating top contenders, including a final victory over Park Yerin from South Korea with a score of 142-136.
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This win marked India’s first-ever archery gold medal in the Under-21 women's compound category at the Youth World Championships.
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Along the way, she overcame formidable opponents such as Parneet Kaur, the 2023 senior Asian champion, in a tough quarter-final match with a score of 146-143, and Spain's Paula Diaz Morillas in the semi-finals 142-133.
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Despite arriving in Canada just hours before the competition due to an airline staff strike, Chikita demonstrated exceptional composure, winning matches rapidly and securing the title.
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Her victory has made an indelible mark on Indian archery, shining the spotlight on Telangana as well.
From Humble Beginnings to World Champion
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Chikita's beginnings were modest, born to farmers Taniparthi Srilatha and Srinivas Rao in Sultanpur village, Telangana. Her education journey took her through SPR School in Nagunur, Karimnagar, then to Garrepalli for intermediate studies, and currently, she pursues higher education at LP University in Punjab.
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Chikita’s passion for archery was ignited in childhood, fueled by watching competitions live and on television. Despite the absence of facilities in her village when she was six, her father Srinivas Rao was unwavering in his support.
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Srinivas Rao took an active role as her coach, imparting yoga for concentration and karate for self-confidence, which Chikita mastered, earning a black belt.
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Using rudimentary equipment procured from Hyderabad, training took place initially in their village farm, with haystacks serving as targets after the rice harvest.
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Her consistent excellence at district and state levels led her to the national stage within two years, where she became the first Telangana girl to win national medals in archery, including silver and bronze in team and individual categories.
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Admission to the Sports Authority of India’s Archery Academy in Sonipat in 2022 marked a turning point, allowing her to hone her natural talent with expert coaching.
National and International Success Before This Triumph
Chikita had already accumulated an impressive list of accolades:
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Gold at the 2023 Goa National Games
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Two silver medals at the National Senior Archery Tournament in 2023
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Two bronze medals at the National Junior Tournament in 2023
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Silver medal in the team category at the World Cup in Shanghai
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Bronze medal at the Asian Grand, finishing fourth individually
These achievements had established her as a rising star in Indian archery, with a strong international presence prior to her world championship win.
Detailed Breakdown of the Youth World Championship Journey
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The Youth World Championship was held in Winnipeg, Canada, spanning August 19 to 26, 2025.
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Despite a disruptive arrival caused by an airline staff strike, Chikita quickly adapted and began competing immediately.
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The knockout stages featured victories over strong opponents from Korea, Spain, and India itself.
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In final matches, she maintained composure and scored efficiently, culminating in her historic gold medal.
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India’s performance at the Championship was impressive overall; besides Chikita’s individual gold, the country also secured several team medals and placed third in the medal table with 6 medals (3 gold, 2 silver, 1 bronze).
Support and Inspiration Behind Chikita’s Success
Chikita’s journey was deeply shaped by family encouragement and grassroots training conditions:
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Her father Srinivas Rao not only coached her physically but also contributed to her mental strength through yoga and karate.
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This holistic training approach developed her concentration, confidence, and competitive edge.
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Coming from a farming background, the family’s investment in archery equipment and devotion to training helped dismantle infrastructural limitations.
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Chikita embodies the potential of India’s rural talent nurtured through perseverance and proper guidance.
The Broader Impact on Indian Archery
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Chikita’s victory marks a milestone for Indian archery, particularly women’s compound archery, a category where India had not previously won gold at the Youth World level.
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This achievement is expected to motivate young archers across Telangana and India, creating new aspirations for international success.
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It also reinforces the significance of support systems like the Sports Authority of India Academy in identifying and developing sporting talent.
Source: The Hans India, Olympics.com, ANI News, News18, Telangana Today, Andhra Jyothy
