IIT entrance topper's real roots in state - Awards pour in from different states for National Science Olympiad winner

Shitikanth’s grandparents at their Ishri Bazaar residence in Giridih. Telegraph picture

Giridih, June 1: The state has reason to be proud of the all-India entrance topper of Indian Institute of Technology. For, his parents reside in Giridih.

Speaking over phone from Delhi, Shitikanth and his father Dr Arun Kumar Burnawal told The Telegraph that they are proud of being Jharkhandis. “My actual home is in Giridih and we love to be called Jharkhandis more than anything else,” said Arun. His son agreed.

Shitikanth, who ranked first in the IIT entrance test, has also topped in the recently concluded National Science Olympiad. For that, he was felicitated today at Delhi in a programme. He was also given a gold medal and Rs 51,000 in cash. Yesterday, Shitikanth was given the Proud of Bihar award along with Rs 1,00,000 in cash by the chief minister of Bihar for topping in the IIT entrance test. “The Rajasthan government would also soon felicitate him. Shitikanth did his Class XII and coaching for IIT entrance examination from Rajasthan,” said his father.

Has the state planned any felicitation for his son?

“I would not make it an issue but if the government of Jharkhand — where we actually belong — does something to motivate my child, I would be most happy.”

Shitikanth would also represent India on the scheduled International Science Olympiad competition at Vietnam on July 17.

After receiving the reward today, Shitikanth told The Telegraph: “God is very kind to me. Not only have I become a topper in IIT entrance tests but have come first in the science Olympiad.”

Shitikanth has always been a brilliant student throughout his academic career. After studying in Carmel School, Bokaro, he shifted to St Michael School, Patna. He finished his Plus Two from Singhania School, Kota, from where he was also coached for the IIT entrance test.

In Class X and XII, Shitikanth had secured 93 and 92 per cent respectively.

The 17-year-old has already planned his future. “I want to become a scientist. There is a lot to do research on,” said Shitikanth.

“I want to do something big for the society so that mankind benefits.”

Studies leave little time for extra-curricular activities but Shitikanth plays cricket, football and chess whenever he gets the chance.

“Till Class IV, I used to paint but now I can not. I miss it.”

For now, all he wants is to visit Giridih. “I would soon come to Giridih to meet my grandparents RamPrasad Burnawal and Brinda Devi,” he said.

The duo are also eagerly waiting for their talented grandson in their house at Ishri Bazaar.