Young archer from Vedanta Aluminium’s training program brings laurels to Kalahandi

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, JULY 23, 2025

Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, is celebrating a remarkable achievement by Khirod Kumar, a promising young archer from Odisha’s Kalahandi district. A product of Vedanta’s Archery Training Initiative in Lanjigarh, Khirod clinched two gold medals and one bronze at the CBSE East Zonal Archery Championship held recently in Kolkata.

Competing in the Under-19 Indian Round category, Khirod demonstrated exceptional skill, focus, and determination to emerge as one of the top contenders. A dedicated student-athlete, he had earlier won five gold medals at the National School Archery Championship, further underlining his consistency and talent. He has been undergoing structured training under Vedanta’s sports development initiative for the past three years.

Commenting on the achievement, Pranab Kumar Bhattacharyya, CEO of Vedanta’s Alumina Business, said, “Khirod’s success is a powerful example of how grassroots sports programs can transform lives. At Vedanta, we are committed to empowering rural youth through sports by nurturing discipline, self-confidence, and a spirit of excellence. We are immensely proud of Khirod’s dedication and achievements, and we remain steadfast in our mission to support many more young talents from Kalahandi.”

Launched in 2018, Vedanta’s Sports Training Initiative is focused on identifying and nurturing athletic potential in underserved communities. The program offers expert-led coaching in archery and athletics, state-of-the-art equipment, and access to modern training facilities. It also ensures that young athletes gain exposure by participating in competitive events at state and national levels.

To date, over 100 archers have received training under the initiative, collectively winning 40 medals at various championships over the past year alone.

Through such impactful programs, Vedanta Aluminium continues to foster sporting excellence among rural youth, helping them realise their full potential and contribute to India’s growing presence in international athletics.

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