Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced a ₹75 lakh cash award for para-athlete Shailesh Kumar, who won gold and set a championship record in the Men’s High Jump T63/42 category at the World Para Athletics Championships.
Historic Achievement Celebrated
Nitish Kumar praised the Bihar resident’s performance as a moment of national pride. “This victory is a moment of pride not only for Bihar but for every Indian,” the Chief Minister stated while announcing the state government’s recognition of the achievement.
State Recognition and Reward
The Chief Minister confirmed that Shailesh Kumar will receive ₹75 lakh and a citation under the State Sports Award Scheme. The announcement represents one of the significant financial rewards provided by Bihar government for sporting excellence, particularly in para-athletics.
CM Nitish Kumar emphasized the broader significance of Shailesh’s accomplishment for Bihar’s sporting landscape. “Shailesh’s victory is direct evidence of the transformation taking place in the field of sports in Bihar,” the Chief Minister stated, highlighting the state’s growing presence in national and international sporting competitions.
Para-Athletics Achievement
The Men’s High Jump T63/42 category includes athletes with leg amputations or similar impairments competing at elite levels. Shailesh Kumar’s championship record demonstrates exceptional athletic performance and technical skill in his classification. The T63 classification typically includes athletes with single above-knee amputations, while T42 covers those with single below-knee or double below-knee amputations, with both categories competing together in this event.
Bihar’s Sports Development Focus
The substantial cash award reflects Bihar government’s commitment to encouraging athletic talent and rewarding international sporting success. The State Sports Award Scheme has been instrumental in providing financial support and recognition to athletes representing the state on global platforms.
Shailesh Kumar’s victory adds to Bihar’s growing roster of successful athletes in various sporting disciplines. The achievement is particularly significant in para-athletics, where Indian athletes have been gaining increasing recognition at world championships and Paralympic events.
The Chief Minister’s announcement has been welcomed by sports administrators and athletes across the state, who view it as motivation for aspiring sportspersons, particularly those in para-athletics categories. The recognition underscores Bihar’s evolving approach to sports development and athlete welfare programs.
