At CRPF Headquarters in New Delhi, Director General Shri G. P. Singh, IPS, honoured world champion para-archer Constable/GD Toman Kumar and his coach Head Constable/GD Pankaj Singh for their standout performances in international para-archery. The felicitation recognised both athletic achievement and the role their success has played in reflecting positively on the force and the country.
From CoBRA service to para-archery success
Toman Kumar’s story is rooted in frontline service. He had served with the elite Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) before a major injury changed the course of his life. In 2022, during an anti-Maoist operation, an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast left him with a serious disability.
Even after that setback, he continued to push forward and eventually emerged as one of India’s leading para-archers. His progress, as described in the report, is presented as a result of sustained effort, determination and disciplined training.
World title in Gwangju and another gold in Japan
A key milestone in his career came at the World Archery Para Championships 2025 in Gwangju, South Korea, where Toman Kumar won gold in the men’s individual compound event. The report notes that this made him India’s first male individual world champion in para-archery.
He later added another major result at the Asian Para Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, where he teamed up with Sheetal Devi to win gold in the Compound Mixed Team event. According to the report, that performance further enhanced India’s standing in international para-archery.
Coach Pankaj Singh’s role
HC/GD Pankaj Singh was also recognised for the guidance he provided throughout Toman Kumar’s journey. The report credits him with helping the archer move from combat injury and rehabilitation into elite-level competition through technical support, disciplined preparation and steady encouragement.
The felicitation at CRPF Headquarters acknowledged both the athlete’s medals and the coach’s contribution in shaping a world-class competitor. It also underscored the force’s appreciation for personnel who achieve distinction beyond their operational duties.
Pride for CRPF and CoBRA
The report says Toman Kumar’s success has brought particular pride to the CRPF and to CoBRA, the unit noted in the article for jungle warfare and counter-insurgency operations. His journey from surviving an IED blast while on duty to standing on the world stage is presented as an example of resilience, discipline and the spirit associated with service personnel.
Through this recognition, the CRPF has highlighted how its members can continue to contribute to the nation in multiple ways, including sport, even after serious operational injury.
