The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has announced a well-deserved reward for the country’s Paralympic badminton heroes. The players, who brought home a historic five medals from the Paris 2024 Paralympics, will be awarded a combined INR 50 lakhs. This recognition underscores the BAI’s commitment to supporting and celebrating the achievements of these exceptional athletes.
India’s para badminton team made history at the Paris Games. Nitesh Kumar secured the coveted gold medal in the Men’s Singles SL3 category, adding to India’s growing medal count. Suhas Yathiraj, continuing his impressive form, won his second consecutive silver medal in the Men’s Singles SL4 category, solidifying his position as a top contender in the sport.
But the true highlight of the campaign was the groundbreaking performance of the Indian women’s team. Thulasimathi Murugesan, Manisha Ramadass, and Nithya Sre Sivan etched their names in Paralympic history by becoming the first Indian women shuttlers to win medals at the Games. Thulasimathi secured silver in the Women’s Singles SU5, Manisha brought home bronze, and Nithya achieved a bronze in the SH6 category.
This unprecedented success reflects the dedication and talent of the Indian para badminton players. Their achievements have not only brought national pride but have also inspired countless individuals. To acknowledge their remarkable performances, the BAI has decided to distribute the prize money as follows:
* Nitesh Kumar (Gold Medalist): INR 15 lakh
* Suhas Yathiraj and Thulasimathi Murugesan (Silver Medalists): INR 10 lakh each
* Manisha Ramadass and Nithya Sre Sivan (Bronze Medalists): INR 7.5 lakh each
BAI Secretary General Sanjay Mishra highlighted the consistent brilliance of India’s para badminton players on the world stage. “The cash rewards are just one way for BAI to recognize their efforts in helping the country win medals at the Paralympics,” he stated. Their achievements are a testament to their hard work, determination, and dedication to the sport, and these rewards serve as a well-deserved recognition of their contributions.
