Karnal, Oct. 25 -- Celebrations erupted at Karnal's Karan Stadium on Saturday as badminton coach Nitesh Kumar (Arjuna awardee) won a gold and a silver medal at the Japan Asian Para Games. The 29-year-old defeated Odisha's Pramod Bhagat 21-18, 21-16 in a clash between two 2024 Paralympic gold medallists for men's singles SL3 gold medal on Friday.

"I am very happy. Last time, I was close, leading 19-16 in the third set, but lost. This time, winning in straight sets against Pramod is, of course, very special. I think it's one of the rarest of rare achievements," Nitesh said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated both. In a post on X, the PM office shared, "Indian para badminton shines bright! Congratulations to Nitesh Kumar on wi...