Mona Agarwal: From Polio to Paralympic Glory

Mona Agarwal, a mother of two, overcame significant personal and financial hurdles to win a bronze medal in the women's 10m air rifle at her maiden Paralympics. Despite the heartache of being separated from her children and battling financial difficulties, the polio-stricken athlete achieved her dream.

Mona Agarwal, a mother of two, faced an emotional struggle every day at the shooting range, exacerbated by her children's video messages asking her to return home via GPS.

On Friday, the 37-year-old claimed a bronze medal in the women's 10m air rifle event at her first Paralympics. Despite aiming for gold, which was secured by India's Avani Lekhara, Mona's achievement was monumental given her challenges.

Juggling emotional distress and financial hardships, Mona, polio-stricken, realized her dream after discovering her potential in competitive sports only in 2016. Her victory is celebrated by her family, who initially objected to her ambitions but are now proud of her accomplishments.

(With inputs from agencies.)