Punjab Newsline | Sports
Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer Ekta Bishnoi has brought international recognition to India by winning three gold medals at the World Masters Classic Powerlifting Championship in the United States. Bishnoi lifted a combined total of 362.5 kg, finishing ahead of strong competitors from Japan and Canada. Her performance also marked a milestone for Indian women’s powerlifting, as she became the first Indian woman to win gold in the Masters-2 category at the championship.
Balancing the demanding responsibilities of public service with competitive sport, Bishnoi has maintained a rigorous training routine to compete at the international level. Her preparation, however, faced an unexpected challenge shortly before the championship when Indian team coach Sunil Kumar was denied a US visa. Despite the setback, Bishnoi remained focused on her competition and continued to receive guidance from Kumar through video calls.
Team official Binu Ibrahim provided on-ground support during the event, helping Bishnoi follow the planned competition strategy. The coordinated effort paid off as she secured the gold medals and achieved a landmark result for India.
Scientific Strategy Helps Secure Historic Victory
Explaining the approach behind Bishnoi’s performance, coach Sunil Kumar said the team followed a scientific and results-oriented training and competition strategy. According to him, Bishnoi established a decisive advantage during the squat event and maintained it through the bench press.
“Our strategy was crystal clear,” Kumar said. “By the conclusion of the squat event, we had already built a decisive 20 kg lead over our closest rival. Ekta successfully maintained this crucial lead through the bench press event. Finally, with a successful opening deadlift of 150 kg, Ekta sealed the historic gold medal for India.”
Bishnoi trains under Kumar’s supervision at Netaji Gym in New Delhi. Her achievement reflects the preparation and discipline required to compete in powerlifting while managing a professional career.
A Milestone for Indian Women’s Powerlifting
Reacting to the achievement, Bishnoi’s partner, Ajay Tomar, also known as Acharyaji, said the preparation for the world championship had been thorough and focused.
“Prior to the World Championship, our preparation was absolute and thorough. We shared a single-minded goal: to win the gold medal for our motherland, India,” he said.
Bishnoi’s three-gold-medal performance adds to India’s presence in international masters powerlifting. Her success also highlights the possibilities for athletes who combine demanding professional commitments with sustained sporting preparation. By winning in the Masters-2 category, she has set a notable benchmark for Indian women competing at the international level.
