Train accident to Paralympic Gold: Who is Nitesh Kumar, the IIT grad who made India proud

New Delhi: Indian para-shuttler Nitesh Kumar made history at the Paris 2024 Paralympics by clinching the gold medal in the Men’s Singles SL3 category, which is designated for athletes with impairment in one or both lower limbs and poor walking or running balance.

The 29-year-old became the third Indian to achieve this remarkable feat, showcasing an impeccable performance throughout the tournament by remaining unbeaten in all his matches.

The final match was a rollercoaster, with Nitesh ultimately prevailing in a nail-biting 21-14, 18-21, 23-21 win over Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell. His triumph follows shooter Avani Lekhra's earlier victory, earning India its second gold at the 2024 Paralympic Games.

Nitesh Kumar, born on December 30, 1994, and hailing from Charkhi Dadri, Haryana, is currently ranked World No. 1 in the Men’s Singles SL3 category. His journey reflects extraordinary commitment to both academics and sports.

An Electrical Engineering graduate from IIT-Mandi, Nitesh's passion for sports began in childhood with football. However, a life-changing train accident in 2009 left him with permanent leg damage. Despite this, his love for sports endured, particularly during his time at IIT-Mandi, where he developed a strong interest in badminton.

Nitesh’s journey into parasports began at a conference for individuals with disabilities, which opened new doors for him in the world of competitive sports. In 2016, he made his debut at the Para Nationals in Faridabad, representing Haryana, and won a bronze medal. The following year, he secured silver in singles and bronze in doubles at the Bengaluru Para Nationals, cementing his reputation in para-badminton, the official sources said.

His domestic success peaked at the 2020 Nationals, where he defeated Tokyo Paralympic medallists Pramod and Manoj to win the gold medal. Nitesh has also earned numerous international accolades, and his exceptional journey has now led him to the grand stage of the Paralympics, ready to make his mark.

Nitesh has established himself as one of India's premier para-badminton players, showcasing remarkable skill and determination on both national and international stages. His journey through various prestigious tournaments has been marked by a series of impressive achievements, reflecting his consistent performance and dedication to the sport.

He has received crucial support from the government to achieve his success in para-badminton. This assistance includes financial aid for essential equipment and prosthetics, such as an artificial leg, which is vital for his performance.

Additionally, he has received financial support for his training and competition expenses, enabling him to focus on his sport without financial constraints. Furthermore, Kumar benefits from an out-of-pocket allowance under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), providing him with the necessary resources to excel in his field.

Nitesh's historic gold medal win at the Paris 2024 Paralympics marks a significant milestone in Indian para-badminton and showcases his extraordinary dedication and skill. His journey from overcoming a life-changing accident to becoming a world-class athlete is a testament to his resilience and unwavering commitment. The series of accolades he has achieved, including his recent triumph in Paris, highlights not only his exceptional talent but also the robust support he has received from the government.

Nitesh's success not only celebrates a personal victory but also inspires future generations of para-athletes in India. His achievements underscore the vital role of perseverance and support in reaching the pinnacle of sporting excellence.