Indian Para Badminton Players Honored with INR 50 Lakh Reward for Historic Paralympic Success

Indian Para Badminton Players Honored with INR 50 Lakh Reward for Historic Paralympic Success

The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has announced a grand reward of INR 50 lakh to honor the exceptional achievements of India’s para badminton players at the recently concluded Paris Paralympics 2024. The Indian contingent made history by securing five medals – one gold, two silver, and two bronze – their highest tally ever at the Paralympic Games.

Nitesh Kumar, the gold medalist in the men’s singles SL3 category, will receive a purse of INR 15 lakh. Suhas Yathiraj and Thulasimathi Murugesan, who won silver medals in the men’s singles SL4 and women’s singles SU5 categories respectively, will each receive INR 10 lakh. Manisha Ramadass and Nithya Sre Sivan, who clinched bronze medals in the women’s singles SH6 and women’s singles SU5 categories respectively, will receive INR 7.5 lakh each.

BAI Secretary General Sanjay Mishra lauded the historic campaign of India’s para badminton players, stating that the cash rewards are a token of appreciation for their efforts in bringing glory to the country. He emphasized BAI’s commitment to developing and promoting para-badminton across India, with initiatives underway to support these players in achieving even greater success.

Considering the players’ busy tournament schedules, BAI will organize a virtual interaction session to congratulate them and discuss their requirements for continued development. The association is dedicated to providing the necessary resources and support to ensure that India’s para badminton players continue to excel on the world stage.

Parabadminton player awaiting for his dues by PCI since June 2022

It was during the 2022 Para badminton International when the athlete, Sanjeev kumar along with his four teammates had to pay the organizers to access their accommodation and the venue.

Indian officials who were responsible for the team started playing a blame game. In June 2023 before the next edition, an email was sent from Joran Bridal, the Executive Director of Badminton Canada regarding the pending invoice of $2,480.

In the mail it clearly stated that only after the payment is done will the player be let into their accommodation and competition venue.

This led to an international embarrassment as the players were asked to vacate their hotel because the balance invoice was unpaid. 

“We were told to pay for accommodation and entry fees ourselves. We had no choice but to pay out of our own pockets. Since we paid all the dues, we had to borrow money for meals” Sanjeev Kumar stated.

A receipt issued by badminton Canada confirms that Sanjeev Kumar paid $710 (around 59,500) to cover the fees and accommodation. Para badminton official under the BAI said the amount was paid to PCI to cover expenses including entry fees.

The blame game just keeps going on whereas player, Sanjeev Kumar who has sent numerous reminders for refund still awaits a positive response from Para badminton chairman (Prabhakar rao)

Para Badminton Champion Calls for Transfer to Paralympic Committee of India

Para Badminton Champion Calls for Transfer to Paralympic Committee of India

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.

Nitesh Kumar Wins Gold in Para Badminton at Paris Paralympics

Nitesh Kumar Wins Gold in Para Badminton at Paris Paralympics

Nitesh Kumar’s life took an unexpected turn after a train accident in 2009 resulted in the amputation of his left leg. Despite his passion for football, destiny had other plans for him. However, the resilient Haryana boy refused to give up on his dreams and found his calling in para sport.

As an engineer by profession, Nitesh discovered his love for badminton while studying at IIT Mandi. Despite wearing a prosthetic leg, he often competed against able-bodied players from his college. His dedication and love for the game led him to win a bronze medal at the Para Nationals in 2016.

Nitesh’s impressive deceptive skills and unwavering determination soon made him a force to be reckoned with at the national level. At the 2020 Para National Championships, he stunned Tokyo Paralympic medallists Pramod Bhagat and Manoj Sarkar. Bhagat, who had claimed a historic gold medal in Tokyo, was serving an 18-month suspension for an anti-doping violation.

Nitesh ensured that India defended its gold medal from Tokyo. In a thrilling final against England’s Daniel Bethell, Nitesh clinched the victory 21-14, 18-21, 23-21, converting a second match point after saving one in between.

“I had goosebumps when the national anthem was being played and the Indian flag was going up. It was an amazing feeling, hard to describe,” said the 29-year-old Nitesh.

Suhas Yathiraj, 41, won silver in the men’s singles SL4 class, losing to France’s defending champion Lucas Mazur. For Yathiraj, an IAS officer of Uttar Pradesh cadre, it was a significant achievement to win his second Paralympics medal, having lost to Mazur in the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics final as well.

India’s success in para badminton continued in the SU5 category (standing/upper limb impairment). Thulasimathi Murugesan took silver after losing to China’s defending champion Yang Qiuxia in the final. Second seed Manisha Ramadass took bronze, beating Denmark’s Cathrine Rosengren in the playoff.

Thulasi, 22, from Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu, trains at the Pullela Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad. Despite her congenital deformity and severe injuries from an accident, she has won three medals in the Asian Para Games, including gold in singles, and silver at the world championships this year.

Indian Shuttlers Thulasimathi, Manisha Bag Historic Medals at Paralympics

Indian Shuttlers Thulasimathi, Manisha Bag Historic Medals at Paralympics

Indian para-badminton stars Thulasimathi Murugesan and Manisha Ramadass etched their names in history at the Tokyo Paralympics, securing a silver and bronze medal respectively in the women’s singles SU5 category.

Thulasimathi, the top seed, displayed immense determination in the final against defending champion Yang Qiuxia of China. Despite a valiant effort, she succumbed to a 17-21, 10-21 defeat. However, her performance was a testament to her skill and resilience.

Meanwhile, second seed Manisha Ramadass showcased her dominance on the adjacent court, outplaying Denmark’s Cathrine Rosengren, the third seed, with a commanding 21-12, 21-8 victory. Her bronze medal marked a significant achievement for India in the sport.

The SU5 category caters to athletes with impairments in the upper limbs, affecting either the playing or non-playing hand. These medals add to India’s first-ever badminton gold at the Paralympics, won by Nitesh Kumar in the SL3 category.

Thulasimathi and Manisha’s success is a testament to their unwavering spirit and the growing strength of para-badminton in India. Their performances have not only brought glory to the nation but also inspired countless individuals with disabilities to pursue their dreams in sports.

Tavares Triumphs in Epic Para-Badminton Quarterfinal

Tavares Triumphs in Epic Para-Badminton Quarterfinal

In a thrilling men’s SH6 quarterfinal at the Paralympics, Brazilian para-badminton star Vitor Tavares emerged victorious over American Miles Krajewski in a match that will be etched in the annals of the sport. The encounter, which was fiercely contested from start to finish, showcased the exceptional skills and unwavering determination of both players.

The first game was a testament to Tavares’ dominance, as he outplayed Krajewski with a series of precise shots and aggressive smashes, securing a comfortable 21-12 victory. However, Krajewski refused to be deterred and fought back valiantly in the second game, employing a more tactical approach to neutralize Tavares’ power. With a series of deft drop shots and well-placed clears, Krajewski leveled the match with a 21-10 win.

The third and decisive game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both players refusing to yield an inch. Tavares, buoyed by the support of the crowd, surged ahead to a 22-21 lead, putting him on the cusp of victory. Krajewski, displaying immense resilience, launched a series of blistering attacks, forcing Tavares into a series of desperate defenses.

In one of the most memorable rallies of the match, Tavares unleashed a powerful smash down the right side, which Krajewski miraculously returned with a diving save. The American, refusing to give up, scrambled across the court to counter a drop shot from Tavares, only to be forced to the ground by the relentless pressure.

Despite falling twice during the rally, Krajewski displayed incredible athleticism and resolve, picking himself up quickly and continuing to fend off Tavares’ relentless attacks. The Brazilian’s persistence paid off as he continued to send a barrage of smashes Krajewski’s way. On three occasions, Krajewski managed to return cross-court smashes, keeping the rally alive against all odds.

However, it was a subtle change in tactics from Tavares that ultimately secured his victory. A delicate drop shot, which barely cleared the net, caught Krajewski off guard, leaving him unable to adjust in time. Despite his best efforts to reach the shuttle, Krajewski’s return went wide, giving Tavares a well-deserved win.

The final scoreline read 21-12, 10-21, 23-21 in favor of Tavares. His victory sets up an exciting semi-final clash against local favorite Charles Noakes, where Tavares will look to continue his impressive run and secure a place in the gold medal match.

Indian Para Shuttler Nitesh Kumar Secures Maiden Paralympic Medal

Indian Para Shuttler Nitesh Kumar Secures Maiden Paralympic Medal

Indian para shuttler Nitesh Kumar has secured a maiden medal in the men’s singles SL3 category at the Paris Paralympics. The 29-year-old defeated Japan’s Daisuke Fujihara in straight games (21-16, 21-12) in the semifinals on Sunday.

Kumar, who overcame permanent leg damage from a 2009 accident, has been performing consistently and expressed his self-belief in reaching the finals. He said, “I have been performing consistently, so I had the self belief that I will make the finals and it feels amazing to actually do that because there is pressure and I had lost my mixed doubles but I didn’t let it affect me.”

In the summit clash, Kumar will face Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell, who defeated Thailand’s Bunsun Mongkhon in the other semifinal. Bethell, who was the runner-up to Pramod Bhagat in the Tokyo Games, is a formidable opponent, setting the stage for an electrifying final.

Kumar’s sports journey began with a passion for football in childhood. However, an accident in Visakhapatnam left him bedridden for months and resulted in permanent leg damage. Despite this, his interest in sports endured, particularly during his time at IIT-Mandi, where he developed a keen interest in badminton.

He kept honing his skills along with studies and made his debut at the Nationals in Faridabad, winning a bronze while representing Haryana. The following year, he clinched silver in singles and bronze in doubles at Bengaluru, establishing himself in para-badminton.

His domestic success peaked at the 2020 Nationals, where he defeated Pramod and Manoj Sarkar to win gold. Kumar’s win assured India’s third medal from para badminton after Manisha Ramadass confirmed a podium after setting up a women’s singles SU5 semifinals duel with compatriot Thulasimathi Murugesan.

India’s medal hopes were further bolstered by Nithya Sivan Sumathy, who advanced to the women’s singles SH6 semifinals with a 21-4, 21-7 victory over Poland’s Oliwia Szmigiel. On Saturday, Sukant Kadam earned the right to take on compatriot Suhas Yathiraj in SL4 semifinals to assure the country its first medal in badminton from this edition of the Games.

India's Paralympic Stars Set for Action-Packed Saturday in Paris

India’s Paralympic Stars Set for Action-Packed Saturday in Paris

India’s Schedule at Paris Paralympics 2024: Saturday, August 31

India’s Paralympic contingent will continue their quest for glory on Saturday, August 31, with a packed schedule of events. Among the highlights will be the performance of armless archer Sheetal Devi, who has already made a strong impression in the women’s individual compound open event.

Morning Session:

* 12:00 PM: Para badminton – Mandeep Kaur vs Celine Aureline Vinot (Australia) – Women’s Singles SL3 Group B (Group Stage)
* 1:00 PM: Para shooting – Swaroop Mahavir Unhalkar – R1 Men’s 10m Air Rifle SH1 Standing (Qualification)
* 1:20 PM: Para badminton – Nitish Kumar vs Mongkhon Bunsun (Thailand) – Men’s Singles SL3 Group A (Group Stage)
* 1:30 PM: Para cycling – Jyoti Gaderiya – Women’s 500m Time Trial C1-C3 (Qualification)
* 1:49 PM: Para cycling – Arshad Shaik – Men’s 1000m Time Trial C1-C3 (Qualification)
* 2:00 PM: Para badminton – Manoj Sarkar vs Ynag Jianyuan (China) – Men’s Singles SL3 Group A (Group Stage)

Afternoon Session:

* 2:40 PM: Para rowing – Anita/Narayana – PR 3 Mixed Doubles Sculls (Repechage)
* 2:40 PM: Para badminton – Sukant Kadam vs Siripong Teamarrom (Thailand) – Men’s Singles SL4 Group B (Group Stage)
* 3:20 PM: Para badminton – Tarun Dhillon vs Lucas Mazur (France) – Men’s Singles SL4 Group D (Group Stage)
* 3:30 PM: Para shooting – Rubina Francis – P2 Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 (Qualification)
* 3:45 PM: Para shooting – Subject to Qualification – R1 Men’s 10m Air Rifle SH1 Standing (Finals)
* 4:00 PM: Para badminton – Manisha Ramadas vs Yang Qiu Xia (China) – Women’s Singles SU5 Group C (Group Stage)

Evening Session:

* 5:05 PM: Para cycling – Subject to Qualification – Women’s 500m Time Trial C1-C3 (Finals)
* 5:32 PM: Para cycling – Subject to Qualification – Men’s 1000m Time Trial C1-C3 (Finals)
* 6:15 PM: Para shooting – Subject to Qualification – P2 Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 (Finals)
* 7.00 PM: Para archery – Sarita vs Eleonara Sarti (Italy) – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Round of 16)
* 8:59 PM: Para archery – Sheetal Devi vs Mariana Zuniga (Chile) – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Round of 16)
* 9:16 PM: Para archery – Subject to Qualification – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Quarterfinals)
* 10:24 PM: Para archery – Subject to Qualification – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Semifinals)
* 10:30 PM: Para athletics – Parveen Kumar – Men’s Javelin F57 (Finals)
* 11:13 PM: Para archery – Subject to Qualification – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Bronze Medal Match)
* 11:30 PM: Para archery – Subject to Qualification – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Finals)

Nitesh Kumar Qualifies for Para Badminton Semifinals at Paris Paralympics

Nitesh Kumar Qualifies for Para Badminton Semifinals at Paris Paralympics

India’s Nitesh Kumar, a 29-year-old IIT Mandi graduate, has secured a spot in the semifinals of the men’s singles SL3 group A para badminton competition at the Paris Paralympics. Kumar, who suffered a permanent leg injury in an accident in 2009, displayed exceptional skill and determination in his second match, defeating China’s Yang Jianyuan in straight games (21-5, 21-11).

Kumar’s victory ensures him a top-two finish in the four-man group, with the top two players from each group advancing to the semifinals. He will face Thailand’s Bunsun Mongkhon in his final group match.

However, Manasi Joshi and Manoj Sarkar’s hopes of reaching the semifinals were dashed after they suffered their second consecutive defeats. Joshi, a 2019 World Champion, narrowly lost to Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyna (21-10, 15-21, 21-23) in her second women’s singles SL3 Group A match. Sarkar, a Tokyo bronze medalist, also faced defeat, losing to Bunsun (19-21, 8-21) in his second Group A match.

In the mixed doubles SL3-SU5 group stage, Nitesh Kumar and Thulasimathi Murugesan lost to the Indonesian pair of Ramdani Hikmat and Oktila leani Ratri (15-21, 8-21). Suhas Yathiraj and Palak Kohli also suffered a defeat to France’s Lucas Mazur and Faustine Noel (15-21, 9-21) in their second group A mixed doubles match.

India's Largest Paralympic Contingent Aims for Record Medal Haul in Paris

India’s Largest Paralympic Contingent Aims for Record Medal Haul in Paris

India’s largest-ever Paralympic contingent, comprising 54 athletes, has arrived in Paris for the 2024 Paralympic Games, aiming to surpass their previous best medal haul. The Games will commence on Thursday, with a packed schedule of preliminary rounds in badminton, archery, and table tennis.

One of the most promising athletes to watch is young para-archer Sheetal Devi. The 2023 Asian Para Games gold and silver medalist will compete in the women’s individual compound open ranking round, alongside Sarita.

In para-badminton, India will field a strong team led by Sukant Kadam, Manoj Sarkar, and Suhas Yathiraj in the men’s singles. Manasi Joshi, Tarun Dhillon, and Nitesh Kumar will represent India in the women’s singles, while Thulasimathi Murugesan, Manish Ramdass, and Palak Kohli will compete in the mixed doubles.

Other events on Day 1 include para-swimming, para-taekwondo, para-shooting, para-cycling, and para-archery.

India’s previous best Paralympic performance came in Tokyo 2020, where they won 19 medals, including five golds. The contingent will be hoping to improve on that tally in Paris and make history for the country.

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