Keonjhar, February 16, 2026: The Odisha Tata Archery High Performance Centre (OTAPHC), Keonjhar, delivered a commanding performance at the 26th State Archery Championship- 2026, clinching an impressive 12 medals — six gold, three silver and three bronze, in Recurve and Compound categories. Competing against top archers from across the state in Sub-Junior, Junior and Senior categories in the event held from February 12th to 15th at Sundargarh, the OTAPHC cadets showcased remarkable consistency, technical precision and competitive temperament, underlining the academy’s growing dominance at the state level.
Leading the charge in the Recurve Round (Sub-Junior Girls), Sabitri Patra struck gold, while Sunita Naik and Lipsamayee Naik claimed silver and bronze respectively. In the Recurve Round (Senior Boys), Arjun Khara showcased his dominance by clinching gold.
The Compound archers matched the momentum.
In the Sub-Junior & Junior Girls segment, Swapnarani Behera bagged gold and silver, Sita Hembram secured gold and bronze, and Chandrika Mahapatra added silver and bronze to the tally.
Daineswar Behera delivered a standout performance in the Sub-Junior & Junior Boys category, winning two gold medals — one each in the Junior and Sub-Junior divisions.
The championship brought together top archers from across Odisha in Sub-Junior, Junior and Senior categories, making the achievement particularly significant.
OTAPHC, a joint initiative of the Government of Odisha and Tata Steel, was established in Keonjhar to nurture high-potential archers through world-class infrastructure, modern equipment and professional coaching. Launched with an initial batch of 24 cadets, the centre has rapidly emerged as a key training hub for grassroots talent from the state.
The latest medal haul further strengthens OTAPHC’s growing reputation as a centre of excellence, consistently producing podium finishes at state and national competitions.
