Delhi Police constable Sonika Yadav has become an inspiring example of courage and strength after winning a bronze medal at the All India Police Weightlifting Cluster 2025–26 in Andhra Pradesh. What makes her achievement even more special is that she is seven months pregnant. A video of her lifting heavy weights while carrying her unborn child has gone viral on social media, and people across the country are praising her.

Sonika lifted a total of 145 kilograms in the competition. This included 125 kg in squats, 80 kg in bench press, and 145 kg in deadlift. She competed with trained athletes from the police forces across India. According to the Times of India, when she found out she was pregnant in May, many believed she would stop weightlifting for some time. However, Sonika decided to continue training carefully because she did not want to give up her passion.

Throughout the competition, no one knew she was pregnant. She wore loose clothing that hid her baby bump. Her husband was also present to support her and helped her after her bench press performance. The audience came to know the truth only after she completed her final 145 kg deadlift. People in the stadium were shocked at first, but then applauded loudly, celebrating her unbelievable determination.

After her win, several fellow policewomen surrounded her and congratulated her. Many called her a true example of women’s empowerment. To ensure her training was safe, Sonika took guidance from online videos and also reached out to international weightlifter Lucy Martins, who has also competed during pregnancy. Martins motivated her and helped her stay confident.

Sonika joined the Delhi Police in 2014. She is currently working in the Community Policing Cell and has also served in Majnu Ka Tila, where she helped lead campaigns against drug abuse. Her dedication has been appreciated earlier as well. She was honored by the Delhi Police Commissioner in 2022, and Union Minister Smriti Irani praised her on Women’s Day for her bravery and service.

During the championship, some thought she had shifted to a lighter category. However, once she stood on the podium with a medal, everyone was surprised to learn that she had been competing while pregnant. Sonika later said that her journey was possible because of “courage and consistency.” Her story shows that women can achieve anything if they remain determined, even during pregnancy.