India, Oct. 28 -- Delhi Police constable Sonika Yadav stepped onto the stage at the All India Police Weightlifting Cluster 2025-26 in Andhra Pradesh on October 17 and lifted a combined total of 145 kg to clinch the bronze medal. What made her victory extraordinary was the fact that the 30-year-old was actually seven months pregnant.

For Sonika, the moment, which came after a period of doubt, felt like destiny. "It was not just a regular lift. I was preparing for the tournament, and when I found out about my pregnancy in May, I was like, 'Could I still do it?' But then I felt this was destined to be. I got back into the gym, started lifting and training again, but with evolved techniques and a proper belt. I ended up competing in the 84+ ...