Indian para shooter Mona Agarwal has once again demonstrated her exceptional talent on the global stage, securing two major medals at the Para World Shooting Championship 2026. Competing in Changwon, South Korea, she clinched a silver medal in the women's 10m Air Rifle SH1 standing event and added a gold medal to her tally in the team category. These dual victories underscore her rapidly growing dominance in international shooting and solidify her reputation as one of India's most dependable para-athletes.
Securing the Ticket to the 2028 Paralympics
Beyond the podium finishes, her performance in Changwon carries a monumental achievement: booking an official spot for the upcoming 2028 Paralympic Games. By doing so, Mona Agarwal has made history as the first Indian female shooter to secure a quota for the 2028 Games. The quota system in para-shooting is highly competitive, requiring athletes to perform at peak levels against the best in the world. Her accomplishment not only ensures her presence on the grandest stage in sports but also gives the Indian shooting contingent an early boost in their preparations for the next Paralympic cycle. Her rapid transition from a newcomer to a global pacesetter shows her dedication and extraordinary mental fortitude.
Understanding the SH1 Classification and Competition Depth
In para-shooting, classification is crucial to ensure fair competition. Mona competes in the SH1 category, which is designated for pistol and rifle shooters who have impairments in their lower limbs but possess full function in their arms, allowing them to support the weight of the firearm without a mechanical stand. Standing events in this category require incredible core strength, stability, and balance, as even a micro-millimeter deviation can result in a missed shot. Competing in the 10m Air Rifle SH1 standing event, Mona demonstrated flawless technique and exceptional control during the high-pressure final rounds to claim her individual silver, followed by a collective triumph in the team event to secure gold.
From Newcomer to Paralympic Medalist
Her journey in professional shooting began remarkably recently, at the end of 2021. Undeterred by the steep learning curve, she immediately focused on refining her shooting posture, mastering technical nuances, and building physical endurance. This relentless preparation culminated in her breakthrough performance at the Paris Paralympics 2024, where she captured a bronze medal in the 10m Air Rifle event. Winning a Paralympic medal so early in her career established her as a rising star, inspiring countless young athletes across India. Following her Paris success, she maintained her momentum, shattering Asian records and delivering consistent performances in international tournaments, which earned her the prestigious Arjuna Award from the Indian government.
The Foundation of Success in Jaipur
Much of her technical development can be traced back to her training at the Eklavya Sports Shooting Academy in Jaipur. Under the guidance of coach Yogesh Shekhawat, she underwent rigorous physical and psychological preparation. He played an instrumental role in polishing her technique, teaching her how to maintain absolute focus under intense pressure, and standardizing her shooting process. Her coach noted that her work ethic is exemplary, describing her as an athlete who practices tirelessly until she completely masters a technique, often spending hours repeating a single drill. Having achieved bronze in Paris and now silver and team gold in South Korea, her ultimate career objective remains securing a Paralympic gold medal, a dream she continues to pursue with unwavering focus.
