An incentive of Rs 51 lakh to gold medalist Toman Kumar and Rs 31 lakh to bronze medalist Abhijeet Sakhuja has been announced.

Former CRPF jawan Tomman Kumar wins gold medal in para archery after losing his leg in a Naxalite attack

Abhijeet Sakhuja, who has been physically challenged since childhood, brought laurels to the state by winning a bronze medal in para badminton.

The state government will provide all possible support to enhance the talent of the players and promote them at the international level: Chief Minister Sai

Raipur
Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai today honored two talented para players of the state, Toman Kumar and Abhijeet Sakhuja, who brought glory to the country and Chhattisgarh by their excellent performance in the Asian Para Games 2026, at the Chief Minister's residence office. Appreciating the achievements of both the players, the Chief Minister announced an incentive of Rs 51 lakh to gold medalist in para archery, Mr. Toman Kumar, and Rs 31 lakh to bronze medalist in para badminton, Abhijeet Sakhuja. He honored both the players by presenting them shawls and a symbol of Bastar art and wished them a bright future. Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Arun Saw was present on the occasion.

Chief Minister Sai said that no matter how great the challenges in life, if one possesses determination, self-confidence, and the will to achieve, no pinnacle of success is impossible. Mr. Tomman Kumar and Mr. Abhijeet Sakhuja have proven this through their courage, hard work, and exceptional athletic talent. The achievements of both athletes are not limited to winning medals, but rather are inspiring tales of struggle to success that will encourage thousands of youth in the state to pursue their dreams.

Lost his leg in a Naxalite attack, but his courage did not break.
The success story of Mr. Tomman Kumar, a resident of Navagaon village in Balod district, is an example of indomitable courage and strong willpower. While serving in the CRPF's Cobra battalion, he was seriously injured in an IED blast during an anti-Naxalite operation in Jharkhand in 2022. He lost his left leg in this incident. Even in this difficult situation of life, he did not give up. Started para archery in 2023 and brought honor to the country by winning a gold medal on the international stage on the strength of continuous practice, discipline and self-confidence.

Saluting Tomman Kumar's courage, Chief Minister Sai said that this brave soldier, who has dedicated his life to the nation's security, has also demonstrated his indomitable willpower on the sports field. The Naxalite bombing may have taken away one of his legs, but it could not take away his passion to do something for the country. First, by protecting the motherland and now by raising the honor of the tricolor on the international sports stage, he has made Chhattisgarh proud.

Abhijeet achieved international success by leaving behind his physical challenge.
Bilaspur resident Mr. Abhijeet Sakhuja has also set an inspiring example of success through his hard work and dedication. Facing the physical challenge of club foot since childhood, Mr. Sakhuja did not let circumstances come in the way of his dreams. He made Para Badminton his goal and honed his sporting talent through hard practice and discipline. By winning the bronze medal in the Asian Para Games, he proved that every challenge can be overcome with strong determination and continuous efforts.

The Chief Minister said that Mr. Abhijeet Sakhuja's achievement is an inspiration to all young people who dream of moving forward in life despite difficult circumstances. He also congratulated the families of both players, noting that family sacrifice, trust, and encouragement play a crucial role in an athlete's success.

The state government is committed to promoting sports talent.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that there is no shortage of sports talent in Chhattisgarh. The need is to provide them with appropriate opportunities, better training, and resources. The state government is continuously working in this direction. Particular attention is being paid to encouraging para-athletes and preparing them for national and international competitions.

He stated that the state government will provide all possible support to both athletes to ensure their improved performance in future competitions. International medal-winning athletes are also provided TA/DA assistance of up to ₹3 lakh under the Sports and Youth Welfare Department's schemes for participation in upcoming international competitions.

Chief Minister Shri Sai expressed confidence that Shri Tomman Kumar and Shri Abhijeet Sakhuja will set new records of success in the times to come with their talent and hard work and will win more medals for the country in international sports competitions and Paralympics.