Paralympic champion Nitesh Kumar has raised concerns over the lack of recognition and administrative support for para badminton within the Badminton Association of India (BAI). Kumar, who won a historic gold medal in the SL3 class at the Paris Paralympics, has called for para badminton to be transferred under the aegis of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) for the sport’s betterment and progress.
Kumar expressed his dissatisfaction with BAI’s lack of attention to para badminton, despite the significant achievements of para shuttlers. “We have won 21 medals at the Asian Para Games, around 14-15 medals at the World Championships, and 5 medals at the Paralympics, but we don’t receive basic appreciation from BAI,” Kumar said.
He highlighted several administrative issues affecting para shuttlers, including delays, inefficiencies, and logistical problems. “There are significant administrative delays and inefficiencies. Often, only 1 or 2 people manage everything, and it’s kind of too much for them, they sometimes miss things,” Kumar said.
Kumar emphasized the need for a dedicated administration team, clear communication channels, and player involvement in selection procedures. “First and foremost, we need a proper administration team. Currently, all responsibilities often fall on one person, which at times gets overwhelming. With a dedicated team, tasks can be distributed effectively and managed more efficiently,” Kumar said.
He also raised concerns about the lack of support for para badminton in terms of funding, training facilities, and equipment. “We need more funding for para badminton. We need better training facilities and equipment. We need more coaches and support staff,” Kumar said.
Kumar’s call for the transfer of para badminton to PCI has received support from other para shuttlers and sports enthusiasts. They believe that PCI has a better track record of supporting para sports and can provide the necessary resources and support for the growth and development of para badminton in India.
