7-Year-Old Ranchi Boy Ishank Singh Creates History with 29-km Palk Strait Swim
In a remarkable display of endurance and determination, seven-year-old Ishank Singh from Ranchi has created history by successfully swimming across the challenging 29-km stretch of the Palk Strait.
The young swimmer completed the demanding route from Talaimannar in Sri Lanka to Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu in approximately 9 hours and 50 minutes on April 30. With this achievement, he has been recognised as the “Youngest and Fastest Palk Strait Swimmer” by the Universal Records Forum.
Known for its unpredictable tides, strong currents and rapidly changing sea conditions, the Palk Strait is considered one of the toughest open-water swimming routes in South Asia. Even seasoned swimmers often require years of preparation before attempting the crossing, making Ishank’s feat at such a young age extraordinary.
Hailing from Ranchi, Ishank underwent rigorous training for several months, practising for four to five hours daily at Dhurwa Dam under the guidance of his coaches. His achievement has drawn widespread praise from the sporting community and beyond.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren congratulated the young swimmer, calling his accomplishment an exceptional example of discipline and dedication that has brought pride to the state and the nation.
Ishank, a Class 3 student of Jawahar Vidya Mandir (DAV Shyamali), has also been lauded by his school, which described the milestone as a moment of pride for the institution.
He has now surpassed the previous record held by Tamil Nadu swimmer Jay Jaswanth, who completed the crossing at the age of 10 in 2019. His achievement further strengthens India’s growing presence in endurance and open-water swimming.
