Ranchi, May 1 -- A seven-year-old swimmer from Jharkhand has crossed the Palk Strait between Sri Lanka and India, covering a distance of about 29 km, officials and family sources said on Friday.

The child, Ishank, completed the swim from Talaimannar in Sri Lanka to Dhanushkodi in India in 9 hours and 50 minutes, facing rough sea conditions and strong waves during the journey.

The feat is being described as a rare achievement for a swimmer of his age, with certification from relevant record authorities currently under process.

Family members said Ishank had shown interest in swimming from an early age and trained regularly with discipline. His coach attributed the achievement to consistent practice and mental endurance.

The Palk Strait i...