Ranchi: Sanjana Kumari, 23, from Lohardaga district clinched a bronze medal in the doubles event at the French Para Badminton International 2026, held from June 16 to 22.Partnering Sathya Vishwanath, Sanjana delivered an impressive run in the international event, registering notable victories over pairs from Brazil and Ukraine to enter the semifinals. In the last-four clash, the Indian duo, however, lost in straight sets to compatriots Manvi Joshi and Tulsi, settling for a bronze.Hailing from Lohardaga, Sanjana is the daughter of a retired Army personnel and has nurtured a passion for badminton since childhood. Despite challenges, she remained steadfast in her pursuit of the sport, never giving up and consistently working towards her goal.Sanjana is now headed to Ireland to compete in the British & Irish Para Badminton International beginning Wednesday, the Paralympic Committee of Jharkhand said. Committee president Jata Shankar Choudhary termed the achievement “historic”.“This specially-abled girl has shown that no matter how difficult the path, success becomes achievable when one keeps their focus firmly on the goal. Every individual should draw inspiration from her, who made not just Jharkhand but the entire nation proud,” he said.Sanjana’s feat once again highlighted the growing presence of Jharkhand athletes on the global para sports stage, he added.
Sanjana Kumari with her bronze medial
Sanjana in action at the France meet