Chikitha Taniparthi wins double gold at Asian Games, qualifies for LA 2028
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Telangana archer Chikitha Taniparthi delivered a historic double-gold performance at the Asian Games on 30 September, winning the compound women's team event and the compound mixed team event in a single day — a feat that has also secured India a quota place for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where compound archery is set to make its Olympic debut.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Wednesday extended his congratulations to Chikitha, saying her name would be 'etched in the history of Telangana sports.' State Sports Minister Vakiti Srihari also personally reached out, calling Chikitha on behalf of the state government and separately speaking with her father, Srinivas Rao, over the phone to convey felicitations.
The Historic Double Gold
Chikitha's first gold came alongside teammates Vennam Jyothi Surekha and Prithika Pradeep in the women's compound archery team event. The second arrived in a tense mixed compound team final, where she partnered with Sahil Jadhav to defeat South Korea's Park Jungyoon and Choi Yonghee in a dramatic shoot-off after the regulation final ended level at 157-157. India held their nerve to claim the gold and, in doing so, also locked in the country's berth for the mixed compound team event at LA 2028.
What the Achievement Means for Indian Archery
The compound mixed team event will make its Olympic debut at Los Angeles 2028, making India's qualification all the more significant. This victory places Chikitha and Jadhav among the earliest confirmed Olympic qualifiers in the discipline globally. Notably, this is a landmark moment for Telangana archery — a state that has been steadily building grassroots infrastructure in the sport over recent years.
Chikitha's Background and Journey
A native of Peddapalli in Telangana, Chikitha Taniparthi's rise has been attributed to relentless practice and the early recognition of her talent by her parents and coaches. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy specifically acknowledged the role of her support system, congratulating both her family and coaching staff. Sports Minister Vakiti Srihari expressed confidence that Chikitha would serve as a long-term inspiration for aspiring athletes across the state.
Broader Significance for India at the Asian Games
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy also extended his best wishes to all Indian athletes competing at the Asian Games 2026, congratulating those who have won medals across various disciplines. He expressed hope that the achievements of India's contingent would encourage greater youth participation in competitive sport. Chikitha's double gold stands as one of the standout individual performances for India at this edition of the Games.
With an Olympic quota now secured and two Asian Games gold medals to her name, Chikitha Taniparthi is firmly positioned as one of India's most closely watched archers heading into the LA 2028 cycle.