Dev Kumar Meena made headlines in Indian athletics by breaking the men’s pole vault national record at the 65th National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships 2026 in Bhubaneswar. Competing at the Kalinga Stadium, Meena cleared 5.46m, surpassing the previous record and securing a spot at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya.
Anushka Yadav also shone in the women’s hammer throw, setting a new national record with a massive throw of 65.64 meters at the Inter-State Championships. This achievement not only broke the previous record but also earned Yadav a place in the Asian Games 2026.
Dev Kumar Meena’s record-breaking feat comes shortly after he shared the national record with Kuldeep Kumar at the Federation Cup in Ranchi, where both athletes cleared 5.45m. By achieving 5.46m in Bhubaneswar, Meena now holds the national record individually.
Meena’s consistent performance throughout the competition not only set a new record but also strengthened his position for upcoming international events. His success at the Inter-State Championships significantly boosts his chances of representing India at the Asian Games.
The remarkable progress in Indian men’s pole vault is evident as the national record has been broken five times in less than two years, showcasing the growing competitiveness in the sport. Dev Kumar Meena’s latest achievement highlights the rising standards of pole vaulting in India, marking a significant milestone in the sport.
