WGM Divya settles for Asian silver

Principal Correspondent

RIDING HIGH her Woman Grandmaster title, Divya Deshmukh added another feather to her cap when she won another international crown the other day.

Brilliantly switching to the online event from Over The Board competition, Vidarbha’s first Woman Grandmaster Divya clinched the silver medal in the Asian Youth Chess Championship that was played online. 

In the Under-16 girls’ category, 16-year-old Divya finished on top but was declared second best based on the Buchholz Tie-Break Points system.

In the nine-round rapid competition, Divya won seven games, drew one, and suffered a loss in the last round to end at par with eventual winner Balabayeva Xeniya of Kazakhstan garnering 7.5 points each.

Divya, who was seeded third in the competition, started on expected lines winning five games she played. However, her winning run was stalled by Xeniya in the sixth round where both the seeded players split points. 

Divya then posted back-to-back victories in the next rounds. But in a bid to gain full points in the last round, Divya suffered a defeat at the hands of China’s Sun Jihan and settled for silver.

In her matches, the city’s only WGM beat Mongolia’s Urangoo Kherlenzorig, Fang Kun from Singapore, Vietnam’s Bui Ngoc Phuong Nghi and Ngo Xuan Quynh, Abbaspoorrad Nikoo of Iran and compatriots Bhagyashree Patil and Saniya Rafique Tadavi.

https://www.thehitavada.com//Encyc/2021/10/28/WGM-Divya-settles-for-Asian-silver.html

Jennifer, 13, grabs maiden U-15 national TT title

CLAIMS U-17 BRONZE AS WELL

Principal Correspondent

RISING table tennis player of city Jennifer Varghese claimed her maiden Under-15 gold in the national ranking table tennis tournament held at the Multipurpose Sports Complex in Mohali on Wednesday.

Jennifer, who claimed her maiden bronze medal in the Under-17 age category a day earlier, improved her performance in lower age category to notch up the gold medal in U-15 age group in the TTFI organised meet. In the final, the city lass, representing Maharashtra, defeated Sandika Bhattacharjee of Bengal 4-2 (11-9, 9-11, 7-11, 12-10, 11-7, 11-6).

Jennifer, the 2019 Cadet Nationals champion, made a bright opening against second seed Sandika. However, the West Bengal girl staged a nice comeback to lead 2-1. Undeterred, the lanky Nagpur girl fought well to thwart the initial threat from her opponent, taking the next three games. But it was not before winning the fourth game on extended points.

According to reports, the fourth game gave Jennifer confidence and brought some sanity to the haphazard game plan she dished out in the previous two games. By the time the fifth game began, the match was going only one way.

Earlier in the semi-finals, Jennifer thrashed M Hansini of Tamil Nadu 11-5, 11-7, 6-11, 11-9, 11-7 while Bhattacharjee got the better of Sayani Panda 11-8, 8-11, 7-11, 12-14, 11-6, 11-7.

Jennifer Varghese, seeded fourrth, outplayed the top-seed Tamil Nadu paddler Hansini 4-1. 

The Tamil Nadu girl was visibly hampered and could not come to terms with Jennifer’s attacking approach. Hansini did take a game off her rival, but it was too little and too late, reported TTFI.

In the quarter-finals, Jennifer defeated Nandini Saha of Bengal 11-5, 11-7, 12-10, 10-112, 9-11, 11-1 to continue her march.

A day earlier, Jennifer had to be content with a bronze medal in the Under-17 singles category. Jennifer stunned several top-rated players on her way to winning her first national medal in the Under-17 age category.

Jennifer shocked second-seeded and Delhi’s top-ranked Lakshita Narang in the pre-quarterfinal.

At Mohali, unseeded Jennifer outlasted Karnataka’s Sahana Murthy and then posted a fighting 3-2 win over Haryana’s Gargi Dangi in the second round to set up a clash against Delhi’s second-seeded Lakshita.

Jennifer created a flutter as she stunned the second seed player in the pre-quarterfinal with a 3-2 verdict. In the seven-game quarter-final, the Nagpur girl demolished Bengal’s Srijita Shaw Bengal 4-1 to assure herself a medal by making it to the semi-finals.

She, however, went down fighting against Tamil Nadu’s Kavyasree Baskar in the semis.

https://www.thehitavada.com//Encyc/2021/10/28/Jennifer-13-grabs-maiden-U-15-national-TT-title-CLAIMS-U-17-BRONZE-AS-WELL.html

Best chance for India to lift T20 WC, says Munaf Patel

By Paritosh Pramanik

INDIAN pacers have done exceptionally well on Australia and England tours and former India seamer Munaf Patel feels that the team now has the firepower to take 20 wickets on any given 

surface.

The 38-year-old bowler also hoped that India will do exceptionally well in the T20 World Cup starting October 17.

“We have a very good chance this T20 World Cup. The wickets in the UAE would be the same as in India. We are good at playing on slow surfaces. Above all, I don’t see any other Asian team as strong as India. Teams like Sri Lanka, Pakistan are slowly creeping up but we are at the top. We are used to playing on slow and flat wickets as we have played on them for years. The conditions will also be similar there. So I think this would be our best chance (to lift the trophy),” hoped Patel while speaking with ‘The Hitavada.’

Indian captain Virat Kohli has decided to step down from captaincy after World Cup but Patel felt there was no need to do so. “We are already doing well under him (Kohli) so it was not needed. But if Virat quits, it would be a completely different scenario,” he said.

Patel credited India’s brilliant performance with the ball in the recent past to BCCI, NCA and IPL for working relentlessly behind the scene in producing these talented pacers.

“I think we have a bright future in the pace department. The best part is that BCCI is maintaining the fast bowlers by using rotation policy. Plus, with experienced Ishant Sharma in the side, the new seamers are definitely getting the best guidance. The thing is players like Ishant, Umesh Yadav who are playing for the past 10-15 years, are helping the new bowlers develop and produce exceptional performance consistently,” said Patel, who was in city for a fast bowlers’ talent hunt programme for IPL Franchise Rajasthan Royals. The one day talent hunt trials were held at Mujumdar Cricket Academy in Vasant Nagar.

Patel also credited IPL for giving new talents to the Indian side.

“IPL has also helped in players getting exposure and train with senior players. Like (Jasprit) Bumrah has learned a lot from Zaheer Khan (former India pacer) at Mumbai Indians,” said Patel who has played 13 Tests and 70 ODIs for India.

Patel was of the view that fast bowler Mohd Siraj has taken the responsibility very well and has a bright future. “He is playing with Virat Kohli in IPL. That experience counts a lot. He has learned a lot from Virat in all aspects, be it training, discipline, fitness,” said the former pacer.

Patel said the reason India have won on foreign soil (Australia and England) was because of top-notch fielding and the ability to take 20 wickets.

“We were always good in the batting department. But to win a Test match, a team needs to take 20 wickets. Even if you score 1000 runs and can’t take 20 wickets, then you can’t win a Test match. Indian bowlers are taking 20 wickets regularly nowadays and to add to it our fielding has improved immensely,” reasoned Patel, one of the architects of India’s 2011 World Cup title victory.

On the bench strength in the bowling department, Patel credited the system in place.

“Our system has improved a lot. Look at NCA, the IPL, BCCI... we got Siraj from IPL. Today, we have a proper structure in place. We conduct the world’s best league in IPL where all the best players play. NCA is available for all, not only bowlers, 24x4. Credit also goes to Virat who has done a lot to take this team to the top. He has improved the fitness standards of the squad,” mentioned Patel, a former Rajasthan Royals pacer.

“The rotation policy has really worked well for India pacers. If we look back in the recent past, we never used a pacer for all five Tests. After one or two matches, they were rested. That’s the reason the bowlers are producing such favourable results,” Patel explained. The former pacer was impressed with seamer Umran Malik who has generated pace in 150s this IPL.

“It feels good when you get such a pacer in India, knocking at 150s. We always wanted a bowler who could generate real pace. But at the same time, only pace won’t do for Umran. He will have to maintain his fitness level as well. I think Virat has taken the right decision in holding Umran back in UAE as a net bowler,” Patel concluded.

https://www.thehitavada.com//Encyc/2021/10/11/Best-chance-for-India-to-lift-T20-WC-Munaf-Patel.html

IM Sankalp earns maiden GM norm

Principal Correspondent

AFTER athletics and badminton, the game of 64 squares is making Nagpur proud.

Teenage chess players of the city are achieving titles and norms frequently now a days.

After Raunak Sadhwani, who became first player from Nagpur to become a Grandmaster and Divya Deshmukh’s Woman Grandmasters’ title a few days back, another promising chess player International Master Sankalp Gupta inched closer to fulfilling his dream of becoming a GM.

On Thursday, Sankalp earned his maiden Grandmaster norm after he earned the required rating points in the GM ASK 1 Chess Competition at Serbia.

Starting as the 10th seed, Sankalp registered some fluent victories and stunning results and is sitting at the second spot behind compatriot Iniyan P in the 11 round competition.

Sankalp is currently performing at 2734 and gaining 24.8 Elo rating points.

Sankalp, 17, is playing his fourth Over The Board Competition and used all his experience in securing seven points from nine rounds. he continued his fine form after clinching his maiden International Rating tournament in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

“I am very happy with my first GM norm. I will be playing a couple of tournaments in Serbia and Spain and try to get the remaining norms,” Sankalp told ‘The Hitavada’.

During the competition, Sankalp registered five straight wins over FM Acor Corey of the US, GM Damljanovic Branko of Serbia, Bosnian GM Emir Dizdarevic, Indian Ritviz Parab and Russian IM Makarian Rudik.

His winning run was stalled by Montenegro’s GM Kosic Dragan who played out a draw. Sankalp bounced back as he defeated compatriot Raahul V S in the seventh round and remained in contention. With the seventh round win, he needed only a draw to earn his first GM norm.

The Dr Ambedkar College student of commerce faculty did well to split point with Indian Shantanu Bhambure and achieved his first goal. His first defeat of the competition came against compatriot P Iniyan.

In the last two rounds Sankalp will be playing against IM S Nitin and WIM Harshita Guddanti.

City’s Divya becomes India’s latest WGM

She is final norm away from becoming International Master

By Paritosh Pramanik

SHE had to wait for this day for more than a year. The coronavirus pandemic halted her smooth surge towards achieving the coveted Women’s Grandmaster (WGM) title. Though she kept herself “in the game” by participating in a few online chess meets, she sorely missed her favourite Over The Board competitions.

The day finally arrived on Wednesday and city’s talented chess player Divya Deshmukh achieved her final norm to be crowned as India’s latest Woman Grandmaster.

Playing her first OTB competition after more than two years, Divya made it a point to collect those vital points as soon as possible. And she did it with aplomb at the First Saturday GM October 2021 Competition in Budapest, Hungary, on Wednesday.

Divya, 15, scored five points out of possible nine and performed at ELO 2452 to secure her final WGM-norm becoming the fifth women Grandmaster from Maharashtra and also the youngest from the State.

Divya also scored her second IM-norm and is now a final IM-norm away from becoming India’s latest International Master.

Divya achieved her first WGM norm at Velammal International Women Round Robin Tournament and then secured the second norm at Aeroflot Open in 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic halted her surge for more than two years.

Divya, who started as the second seed in the Budapest competition, ended a creditable fifth winning three games and drawing four.

After achieving her first “target” Divya posted on twitter: “Completed my 2nd IM norm and my last WGM norm. Hoping to play some more good chess in the upcoming tournaments.”

Divya said she loved playing OTB competitions and missed them all these days.

“I am very happy with this title (WGM). I love Over The Board (OTB) competitions. I missed them very much in the past two years. I was very excited to play the OTB after a gap of more than two years. Now, I need to achieve just one more norm for an IM title. I will try to get it in the next tournaments in the next couple of weeks,” Divya said from Budapest.

Divya, who crossed 2400 rating points in April 2019, was playing her first Over The Board Tournament since COVID-19 put a break on all competitions.

Divya’s mother Dr Namrata said the WGM title would have come much earlier had there not been this pandemic break.

“She could have achieved this title much earlier but for the coronavirus break she had to wait for so long. We all are very happy with her performance. We all are proud of her,” said Dr Namrata, a gynaecologist.

But for Divya it was the same as it was two years back.

“Played OTB chess after almost two years. Yet, I didn’t feel like anything changed at all. The intense atmosphere, the vibe, the anxiety during time crunches, the nervousness, the great games, and just about everything. Missed every bit of this and I’m so glad to be playing again,” Divya tweeted.

Divya, who is with her father Dr Jitendra in Budapest, will now play a couple of tournaments in Budapest and Latvia where she would attempt to achieve the final IM norm.

The Budapest meet starts October 15 followed by Latvia competition 10 days later.

The All India Chess Federation also congratulated Divya for her WGM title.

“Congratulations @DivyaDeshmukh05, latest Woman Grandmaster of India. Nagpur teenager Divya Deshmukh becomes the latest Woman Grandmaster of the country after achieving her second International Master Norm (Final WGM Norm) at First Saturday Grandmaster October 2021, Budapest Hungary,” the federation tweeted.

Vora, Kashmiri continue to head NDFA

 

 

Principal Correspondent

THE new body of Nagpur District Football Association took charge after the election of the association on Sunday. The entire body was elected unanimously at Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar Football Stadium, Suyog Nagar, north Nagpur.
Haresh Vora will continue as President for another term of two years. This will be his fourth term as the chief of the body. Iqbal Kashmiri too will continue to be the secretary. The only change at the top is the election of Mohd Khalid Ansari as treasurer of the association. AB Khan was the election officer.
The new body: President: Haresh Vora (Life Member), Vice-Presidents: Atmaram Pande (Big Ben), Sameer Meghe (LM), Kamil Ansari (YMFC), Abdul Latif (LM); Secretary: Iqbal Kashmiri (Nagpur Sporting Club); Treasurer: Mohd Khalid Ansari (Qidwai); EC Members: Vishal Naidu (Hansraj Club), Satyanarayan Jerpot (LM), Hemant Sahani (LM), Dr Kamal Ansari (Ansar Club, Kamptee), Stanley Gregory (Rahul SSA), Mohd Mobin (Rahul Academy women wing), Bernard D’Souza (LM), Mehfooz Akhtar (XI Star, Kamptee), Abid Khan (Eagle Sports), Papan Pramanik (Noble Sports Academy), Sanjay Kathale (Nagpur City Club).

Will help VHA in getting astro turf: Mayor Tiwari

 

 

Hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand’s mural dedicated to city

 

Principal Correspondent

NAGPUR Mayor Dayashankar Tiwari dedicated hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand’s mural to the city during a ceremony organised by Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) at Vidarbha Hockey Association ground on Sunday morning.
On the occasion of National Sports Day, the Mayor once again raised hopes of an astro turf at VHA. “The proposal of an astro turf at VHA ground is pending with the government for several years. I request corporator Kishor Jichkar to follow up with the State Government where the file is stuck. Once the file moves to the Central Government I will personally talk to Sport Minister Anurag Thakur and get funds for the turf,” assured Tiwari.
Speaking further, he said that VHA should train players of NMC schools as there is a lot of talent in these kids.
“There is talent in the students of NMC schools, I request VHA to select players from NMC schools and train them so that they bring laurels,” added Tiwari.
The mural was idea of corporator Jichkar who took personal care in installing it at the gate of VHA. On the occasion, VHA Administrator TN Sidhra, NMC Sports Officer Pramod Tabhane, corporators Sanjay Bangale, Rupa Rai, Ujjwala Sharma, Prakash Warade, NMC Sports Officer Piyush Ambulkar, Vijay Barse, Narendra Jichkar, Vivek Siriah, Raju Reddy, Satish Fulsunge, Harish Kapoor, Kishor Goydani, Ghanshyam Mange, Naveen Naidu, Indu Thakur, Girish Naidu, Gajanan Malkar and others were present.

Dr Suryawanshi, Dr Welukar visit Guj varsity

By Paritosh Pramanik

CONTINUING its study tour, members of Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University (RTMNU) today visited Gujarat University in Ahmedabad to get the knowledge of indoor sports complex and other facilities there.
Director of Physical Education and Sports, RTMNU Dr Sharad Suryawanshi, former director Dr Dhananjay Welukar along with architect Anand Sarda are on a two-day tour of Ahmedabad where they would be collecting details about the indoor sports complex. This is RTMNU delegates’ second visit after they toured Marena-Manipal Indoor Sports Arena, Manipal a few days ago.
RTMNU will be constructing indoor sports complex at its premises in Ravi Nagar with an estimated cost of Rs 30 crore. The funds will be generated from various sources including CSRs. The study tour is planned so that one of the best sports complexes of the country is constructed in Nagpur.
“At present we are at Gujarat University in Ahmedabad. This is our second visit after which a blue print will be prepared by the architect,” said Dr Suryawanshi while talking with ‘The Hitavada’ over phone from Ahmedabad.
“The university is spread in 43 acres of land and have excellent sports facilities. We saw the indoor swimming pool which is of international standard. We liked the idea and the planning with which it is constructed. Similarly, the shooting range here is of international standard apart from facilities for badminton and other sports,” added Dr Suryawanshi. “The sports university also has a hostel which can accommodate 2000 students,” Dr Suryawanshi further said.
“We will also be visiting SAI Hostel in Gandhi Nagar and the Swarnim Gujarat Sports University,” informed Dr Suryawanshi.
On Wednesday the delegates will be visiting several private clubs which have multi-storey sports complexes.
“We will get more idea on how we can utilise space for other sports facilities by constructing multi-storey  complex,” he said.
Earlier this year RTMNU had formed a committee headed by former Board of Studies Chairman Babanrao Taywade for indoor sports complex.
The other committee members include Suryawanshi, who is also the secretary of the committee, former mayor Kundatai Vijaykar, Management Council member Vishnu Changde, former India cricketer Prashant Vaidya, Arjuna and Dronacharya Awardee Munishwar, Senate Member Adv Manmohan Bajpayee, Dr Welukar, Maharashtra Netball President Vipin Kamdar, former handball player Viral Kamdar and Sanjay Bhende.
The proposed land for indoor sports complex, which is situated at the left side of entrance gate of the Sports Stadium in Ravi Nagar, is sufficient enough to construct the indoor stadium.
“The area is sufficient for our dream project. It is approximately 90 metres in length and 40 metres in width. There is another 60 metres of unused land at the back side,” Dr Suryawanshi had told this newspaper.
The proposed project would cost around Rs 35-40 crore. RTMNU will contribute around Rs 5-8 crore.  RTMNU will try to generate money through CSR. It can also get grant from Khelo India Sports Infrastructure Development Scheme.
“This academic session State Government has helped Aurangabad University. Next year we will submit our proposal,” Dr Suryawanshi had informed.

Vora, Kashmiri unanimous choice for post of president, secretary

NDFA to get new treasurer in Mohd Khalid
 

By Paritosh Pramanik

THE 18-member executive committee of Nagpur District Football Association (NDFA) will once again be elected unanimously with incumbent president Haresh Vora and secretary Iqbal Kashmiri facing no opposition for their respective posts.
Similarly, the four vice-presidents will also continue to hold their posts for a term of two years.
The election of the association is scheduled for August 29 at Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar Football Stadium in Suyog Nagar, North Nagpur.
The only change at the top will be election of Mohd Khalid Ansari as the new treasurer. As reported by ‘The Hitavada’ on August 14, Khalid is all set to replace Karamchand Chaurasia.
Chaurasia is expected to be elevated to the Advisory Committee where a post is vacant since the demise of Arif Khan.
A total of 22 contestants filed their nominations for different posts and after scrutiny all were accepted by election officer AB Khan.
MLA Sameer Meghe, Kamil Ansari, Abdul Latif and Atmaram Pande will continue to be the vice-presidents of the soccer governing body of district.
President Haresh Vora, who is holding the post since 2015 after former Mayor Atal Bahadur Singh stepped down, is also Vice-President of Western India Football Association (WIFA), the soccer governing body of Maharashtra while Kashmiri
is the executive committee
member.
Those filing their nomination for executive committee members’ post include Stanley Gregory, Abid Khan, Dr Kamal Ahmed Ansari, Sanjay Kathale, Vishal Naidu, Mehfooz Akhtar, Mohd Mubin, Papan Pramanik, Bernard D’Souza, Satyanarayan Jerpot, Hemant Sahani, Ankush Bhadange, Adnan Ali, Biswajeet Dey and Eugene Norbert.
Out of 15 contestants, who filed their nominations, four are expected to withdraw from the executive committee’s post.
The last date of withdrawal is August 25.

Construction work of synthetic track begins at RTMNU Sports Complex

 

Principal Correspondent

THINGS have started taking shape at the Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University Sports Complex in Ravi Nagar.
The work of laying of synthetic track has started with the construction company digging boundaries of cinder track.
A JCB excavated earth from the boundary of football ground for the drainage line.
With a good base under the cinder track, not much work would be needed on that area.
The track is expected to be completed in nine months.
The ground breaking ceremony was held recently at the hands of Cabinet Minister Nitin Gadkari. The work of making the track has been entrusted to Public Works Department and RTMNU is spending around Rs 11 lakh on the entire project.
The contractor for the track is Sports Facilities Company Limited, Mumbai.
The track is being constructed as per the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) norms. It will have eight lanes along with steeple chase, jumping pits for long and triple jumps.
The entire track would be fenced and will have two gates apart form one main entrance. The track will also have a grass surface football ground in the middle.
According to the proposed plan. cages will be in place for hammer throw and discus throw and flood lights will ensure that competitions can be held in night.
Recently, a few changes were made in the plan. RTMNU had decided to construct separate lane and pit for long jump and triple jump.
“This was not in the earlier plan. But now we have decided to lay separate lane for long jump and triple jump. This will be done near the hostel building gallery. We have space on that side and we decided not to disturb the 8-lane track and create a separate one for jumping events,” Dr Suryawanshi had informed ‘The Hitavada’.
Similarly, the university dropped the plan of converting the football ground into artificial turf.
“It was decided to replace the lawn turf of football field into artificial turf. But that plan has been changed. We will continue with the same lawn turf but a fresh one would be laid. Special attention will be given to the work so that ground mud would not make way to the synthetic track. We may go for block tiles on the side of the track. The drainage system will also be renovated and slope from all sides of the playfield will be maintained,” Dr Suryawanshi had said.
    n

My next target is 2024 Paris Olympics, says bronze medal winner Manjiri

 

 By Paritosh Pramanik

THE senior archers of country might have fallen short of winning a medal at the just-concluded Tokyo Olympics in Japan but the cadets of India made a mark at the Poland World Archery Championship where they produced medal winning performances. The archers achieved their best ever show in the Youth World Championships by grabbing three gold, one silver and a bronze medal in the compound section.
In absence of Asian heavyweights Korea and China, Indian archers ruled the roost in the Under-18 (cadet) section, where the men’s, women’s and mixed pair teams emerged world
champions.
Vidarbha’s Manjiri Alone, a resident of Nandgaon, Khandeshwar 40 kms from Amravati district, won two bronze medals to add to India’s tally. Manjiri won bronze in individual as well as team championship. Back in the country after her superb performance in her maiden international competition, Manjiri was happy with her showing.
“I am really happy with my performance at Poland. This was my first international event and I proved my credential,” said Manjiri while talking with ‘The Hitavada’ on Wednesday.
The Standard IX Eklavya Gurukul School, Amravati student said she is now targeting 2024 Olympics in Paris.
“The next aim is to perform well in Asian Games and the ultimate target is Paris Olympics. I will be starting training for the same immediately. There is no time to rest on the laurels. Paris Games are just three years away,” said Manjiri, who got inspiration of taking up archery from her elder sister Samiksha, herself a national level archer.
In the individual bronze medal match, Manjiri defeated her opponent from The Netherlands to claim the third spot.
“There was no pressure on me. I did nothing new. What I practised at Sonipat (during India camp) I did same during the competition,” she said.
“I want to take my cadet performance to the next level and want to cement my place in the senior India team,” wished Manjiri, whose mother Ranjna is a home maker and father Manoj is clerk at Waman Vidyalaya in Amravati.
The performance would have been much better had Manjiri, or for that mater the entire team, got better equipment. “We practise for eight hours daily. The only thing is we expect much better equipment for practise. We are getting the equipment from Gurukul but we also have to spend from our pocket. We have a lot of problems in getting best quality equipment. They are costly too which everybody can’t afford. Our opponents participate with very high quality equipment. I think if we also get those equipment we can also shoot gold,” replied Manjiri.
There was financial windfall on Tokyo medal winners but the junior sportspersons hardly get anything for their heroics. Manjiri feels that financial help should also be given to other winners in other competitions as well.
“Yes, I think, if we get financial help for at least purchasing best quality equipment, we could perform much better. Archery is a costly sport and it needs a lot of money to play this sport. Only my parents know how they manage,” said Manjiri who doesn’t have any sport scholarship from Khelo India or TOPS.
Manjiri knows that her path upwards would be tougher but she is determined to give her best. “I know it will be very tough from here on but I will give my best to get selected in the Indian team,” Manjiri confidently said. The equipment with which she is now playing is not of the best quality and Manjiri also knows that it would be very difficult for her to make the next grade. For that she hopes that corporate and others come forward to help her sport survive. “I expect Government to help us financially so that we get better equipment. Even corporate houses can help us,” prayed Manjiri.

--------------------

 Coach begs for financial help

By Paritosh Pramanik

ARCHERS from Eklavya Academy, Amravati can bring several medals for India at international competitions including Olympics but for that Government must come forward and provide them with better equipment, said Eklavya Academy coach Amar Jadhav who was in Nagpur to receive India cadet medal winning archer Manjiri Alone. Jadhav rued lack of support from Federation as well as from Government in running the sport.
“We hardly get any support from the federation. Our players can easily match Deepika Kumar and Komalika Bari. Our archers hit same scores which these India internationals manage at the top level,” said Jadhav.
“At our academy we have at least 40-50 archers out of which at least 5-6 archers have the calibre to play at highest level. All are coached by Shiv Chhatrapati award winner Sadanand Jadhav.
Lack of financial help forced Jadhav to shell out money from his own pocket to purchase arrows for Manjiri.
“She had to leave for the competition but her arrows were dented and were of no use. I gave Rs 25,000 for new arrows,” claimed Jadhav. “Manjiri’s father had to shell out Rs 10,000 for her visa,” he added.
A player practises for eight hours daily. At least three dozens of arrows are required in a year for practise and they are costly too (Rs 35,000 per dozen). The arrows are of no use after three months as they become shapeless,” said Jadhav.
“If government or federation come forward and help us with equipment, our archers can bring laurels and the sport will grow exponentially,” concluded Jadhav.

 

Proposed hockey astro turf ground converted into golf course

 

 

By Paritosh Pramanik

THE bronze-medal winning performance by Indian men’s hockey team at Tokyo Olympics has reignited love for the game in entire country.
India’s third-place finish at the Summer Olympics has forced countrymen hope that the condition of game will get better, starting from the grassroot.
Though the condition and popularity of the game is improving in northern and north-eastern part of India, the situation in central part of the country is getting worse with each passing day.
In Nagpur, there are two hockey grounds (Vidarbha Hockey Association on Amravati Road and Vidarbha Women’s Hockey Association in Sadar). Pathetic condition of both the grounds is there to be seen for all. Leave aside astro turf, both grounds are unplayable on mud surface (chat) or lawn grass.
If that not enough, the proposed hockey astro turf at Divisional Sports Complex in Mankapur has been ‘converted’ into a golf course.
In January, 2020, the State Government had proposed an ambitious Divisional Sports Complex expansion plan worth Rs 123 crore. The plan included construction of international standard swimming pool, shooting range, hockey astro turf, a multipurpose sports indoor hall, an athletics track for practice apart from renovation of the present indoor hall.
The hockey astro turf and shooting range were proposed at the far corner of the premises, behind the athletic synthetic track gallery.
But a few months back, authorities inaugurated a golf course on the proposed astro turf land.
It was also announced that the golf course would be given to general public for a monthly fee while it will be on discounted rates for the school students.
The ‘encroachment’ on hockey astro turf land has pained the game lovers and also budding players who practice inside the complex. Players, who did not wish to be named, said that if the ground is allotted for hockey then why it is being used for golf.  “This shows their love and interest, or lack of it, towards hockey,” they alleged.
“They have spent around Rs four lakh on construction of golf course. What was the reason to spend such a huge amount when it is a temporary arrangement,” the players asked.
According to sources there would be change in the proposed plan. “There are minor changes in the proposed plan. The old plan was only for reference purpose. There might be addition of some more facilities and change in the location of specific sports grounds,” the sources said.
When contacted Shekhar Patil, the newly-appointed Deputy Director of Sports, Nagpur Division, said he will look into the matter. “I have assumed charge just a month back. I will have to go through the actual plan and only then I can comment on the issue. I am sure that all the facilities in the proposed plan will be in place and no game would be neglected,” Patil told ‘The Hitavada’.
A meeting regarding the proposed plan is likely to be held by month end.

NDFA election on August 29

  

Vora, Kashmiri likely to continue as President, Secretary for another term

By Paritosh Pramanik

THE Nagpur District Football Association (NDFA) will be holding its election on August 29. In all probability, the present executive committee will continue with the only change being expected for the treasurer’s post. The new body will be elected for the period of two years.
For the first time, the election will be held at Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar Football Stadium in Suyog Nagar, NDFA’s new office. The election notice and forms will be issued on August 14 while the last date of accepting the forms is August 21.
The scrutiny of forms will be done on August 23 while the last date of withdrawal of forms is August 25.  The final list of contestant will be displayed on August 26 and the election, if needed, will be held on August 29. AB Khan has been appointed as the Election Officer during the executive committee meeting held recently.
As it has been the trend, the new body is expected to be elected unopposed.
Incumbent President Haresh Vora, who is holding the post since 2015 after former Mayor Atal Bahadur Singh stepped down, will ‘fight’ for the top post for another term. Similarly, Iqbal Kashmiri is likely to contest for the secretary’s  post.
Vora is also Vice-President of Western India Football Association (WIFA), the soccer governing body of Mahrashtra while Kashmiri is executive committee member.
If sources are to be believed, there might be a change in treasurer’s post which is at present occupied by Karamchand Chaurasia. Mohd Khalid of Qidwai Club is likely to contest for the post of treasurer while Chaurasia, in all likelyhood, will be promoted as the advisory committee member. After the death of life member Arif Khan, the post in the Advisory Committee is vacant.
The association is likely to continue with the four vice-presidents in MLA Sameer Meghe, Atmaram Pande, Kamil Ansari and Abdul Latif. There might be a few changes in the present executive committee members’ post, if the Vora-led body feels so.
The present members are Hemant Sahani, Abid Khan, Mohd Mobin, Papan Pramanik, Vishal Naidu, Eugene Norbert, Dr Kameel Ansari, Mohd Khalid, Sanjay Kathale, Stanley Gregory and Satyanarayan Jerpot.

Election programme

Issue of notification: Aug 14
Sale of nomination forms: Aug 16
Last date of accepting forms: Aug 21
Scrutiny of forms: Aug 23
Withdrawal of forms: Aug 25
Final list of candidates: Aug 26
Election, if needed, and decleration
of results: Aug 29
Venue: Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar
Football Stadium in Suyog Nagar
Election Officer: AB Khan

Welcome to solar powered divisional sports complex

 

 

THE COMPLEX MAY also TURN INTO POWER GENERATION UNIT

 

By Paritosh Pramanik

IN NEXT few days the Divisional Sports Complex situated at Mankapur would run on solar power.
The installation of solar panels and other work of electrification is nearing completion and it can be operational once the meters are connected.
Last year, Maharashtra Sports Minister Sunil Kedar had ordered to convert the conventional energy-run sports complex premises to solar energy.
The solar panel will generate electricity of 160 KVA which is sufficient to run the administrative building and the street lights inside the sports complex.
The installation work is being done through Maharshtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA) with an estimated cost of Rs
80 lakh.
Though it won’t generate energy enough for any major competition which will be hosted inside the indoor hall, the solar energy will definitely reduce the financial burden incurred by electricity generated from conventional energy.
If sources are to be believed the monthly electricity bill of sports complex comes around Rs three lakh.
“This can be reduced and can save around Rs 36 lakh per year,” said sources.
“The solar panels are erected on the hostel building and at other places inside the premises. It has happened only because of Maharashtra Sports Minister Sunil Kedar. He has taken special interest in this project and wanted the work to be done at the earliest,” sources added.
Whatever electricity will be generated will be used for sports complex purpose. The excess electricity, if generated will be transferred to the State electricity distribution department (grid). In this way the complex can become electricity generation unit also.
‘Last year, ‘The Hitavada’ has published news of Minister Kedar taking the decision to convert the stadium into solar powered. It is heartening to see that the work is nearing completion in span of just 14 months.
In another positive development, the Divisional Sports Complex has acquired a two-acre land which was with the health department in the same premises. The same land can now be utilised for other sports
activities.
Similarly, a 24.71 HA land was reserved for theatre, auditorium and roads of 18m and 24m. These are also transferred to the Divisional Sports Complex, it has been learnt.
‘The Hitavada’ tried to contact Kedar but calls to him went unanswered.

No holds barred: MMA arrives in city

 

City trio ventures into ‘Xtreme Fight Club’

By Paritosh Pramanik

COLOURFULLY-LIT octagon shaped arena caged with thick chain fencing, fighters going for ‘blood’ of opponents, spectators rooting for their favourite fighter... it is a usual scene in the United States where Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is an extremely popular sport. Now, experience all the thrill right here in Nagpur. The MMA has arrived in style!
Mixed Martial Art, which is growing at a steady pace in the country, has found a place in Nagpur too. Two Nagpur businessmen and a MMA professional have joined hands to form ‘Xtreme Akhaada’, which aims at promoting the sport at national level while giving players a chance to show their skills and potential.
‘Xtreme Akhaada’ is started by businessmen Rohit Buty, Vishesh Agarwal and Martial Arts Professional Deepak Udair. These three young and energetic men decided to deliver some real entertainment to the city and spread its wings in the country.
‘Xtreme Akhaada’ kick-started its activities recently with the ‘WAR - Warriors and Ragers.’ The first-ever event was a grand success as it saw MMA players from various cities battle it out for top honours.
Young businessman Rohit Buty is the brain behind MMA coming to Nagpur. “Since I started practising martial art, it was my dream to bring MMA to Nagpur. We started planning some six months back sometime in January,” Buty told ‘The Hitavada’.
“Every fight raised the bar for the event as well as the players. The event was well organised with all protocols in place and was also very successful,” Buty added.
Buty wants to take MMA to all parts of the country. “India is still unexposed to the world of Mixed Martial Arts and we have come to realise the massive untapped potential that our fighters have to offer. We plan to take WAR - Warriors and Ragers to every city in India before we conquer the globe. These will be the premier MMA events across India in the coming years,” Buty said.
“Our next step is to take WAR to Raipur, Pune, Nashik, Mumbai and Delhi. We already have a line-up prepared for these cities and are just waiting for the pandemic situation to stabilise before we go full throttle. By this yearend we intend to start a Fight League in which we shall be creating inter-city teams and auctioning the best players in the country to compete on a platform never seen before,” Buty elaborated on their future plans.
Partner Vishesh Agarwal said that the MMA was not only about fights. It was a platform which would give the enthusiasts entertainment of five hours.
“Don’t think about our fight nights as just MMA. Think about it as a 4-5 hour entertainment event which you enjoy with your friends and family clubbed with multiple high adrenaline acts and programme with the main focus – LIVE MMA Fights. We don’t want unnecessary spectators but what we want is limited, passionate crowd so that we can get our spectators as close to the action as possible. This is a rich man’s spectator sport and our events cater to such a crowd with full hospitality,” Agarwal said.
‘Xtreme Akhaada’ also has a legal team in place to make it more transparent.
“Courtesy our legal team, all our events were conducted smoothly. Our company is well protected. Unlike various other MMA events across India, our business model is a bit different and our investors are very happy with our deliverables,” said Agarwal.
“We promise you that this year’s Diwali is going to be Xtreme,” added Agarwal.
Udair, the professional martial art karateka who has dedicated his life to Martial Arts and is a Black Belt in Taekwon-do (3rd Dan, International Coach and Referee) said, “I have had training in MMA for two years in Japan and I am currently imparting coaching to over 100 students the art of MMA. It has always been my dream to give an opportunity and platform to Indian fighters to compete, as MMA is still underappreciated and undervalued in India,” Udair said.
“My dream is to train an Indian to become the world champion and through our company and WAR we intend to realise this dream. So far we have inventory of more than 200 fighters who wish to compete in our events and the numbers keep growing. We ensure that all the competing fighters are medically vetted, insured and certified to compete as well as protected by our team of competent doctors to ensure that all participants are safe and not harmed in any way,” explained Udair.
 

RTMNU delegates in Manipal to study Indoor Sports Arena

TO CONSTRUCT INDOOR SPORTS COMPLEX ON SAME LINES IN NAGPUR

By Paritosh Pramanik

THINGS seem to be moving in the right direction and at a steady pace for sports at Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University (RTMNU).
After the bhoomipujan for work of Synthetic Track at the RTMNU Sports Complex in Ravi Nagar early this month, the Department of Sports and Physical Education has decided to speed up the work of indoor complex too.
RTMNU will be constructing indoor sports complex at its premises with an estimated cost of Rs 30 crore which will be generated from various sources including CSRs.
To make it one of the best sports complexes of the country, an RTMNU delegation is in Manipal to study the Marena-Manipal Indoor Sports Arena which is India’s biggest and best indoor sports arena.
Dr Sharad Suryawanshi, Director, Department of Physical Education and Sports, RTMNU, Senate Member and Arjuna and Dronacharya Award winner Vijay Munishwar and architect Anand Sarda have reached Manipal University and have completed the first session of their study.
“We have completed our first session. The university is beautiful and excellent. It has one layer of sports facilities above the ground level (G+1) while five are below (G-5),” informed Dr Suryawanshi while talking with ‘The Hitavada’ over phone from the venue.
“The G-5 level includes a huge gymnasium which can accommodate around 100 fitness enthusiast at one go. The gym is surrounded by a 200 metres synthetic jogging track, that too inside the indoor hall,” informed Dr Suryawanshi.
“Apart from these, there are squash courts, five badminton courts, basketball courts with spectators gallery, a five-a-side football arena, bowling machine for cricket practise. All these are at the G-5 area,” Dr Suryawanshi added.
“We loved the concept as it helps in utilising space in best possible way with maximum usage,” he added.
The G+1 level has rooms for the B.Sc and M.Sc (Sports Science) classes apart from a 25-metre swimming pool.
“We want to construct our indoor hall on these lines, though not in same pattern. We want to see all the other the facilities and the infrastructures so that we get an idea for our indoor hall. Tomorrow we will look at the outdoor facilities,” said Dr Suryawanshi.
In January, RTMNU formed a committee headed by former Board of Studies Chairman Babanrao Taywade for indoor sports complex.
The other committee members include Director of Physical Education and Sports, RTMNU Dr Suryawanshi, who is also the secretary of the committee, former mayor Kundatai Vijaykar, Management Council member Vishnu Changde, former India cricketer Prashant Vaidya, Arjuna and Dronacharya Awardee Munishwar, Senate Member Adv Manmohan Bajpayee, former Director of Physical Education and Sports Dr Dhananjay Welukar, Maharashtra Netball President Vipin Kamdar, former handball player Viral Kamdar and Sanjay Bhende.
The indoor complex, which is situated at the left side of entrance gate of the Sports Stadium in Ravi Nagar, is sufficient enough to construct India’s best indoor stadium.
“The area is sufficient for our dream project. It is approximately 90 metres in length and 40 metres in width. There is another 60 metres of unused land at the back side,” Dr Suryawanshi had told this newspaper.
“The proposed project would cost around Rs 35-40 crore. RTMNU will contribute around Rs 5-8 crore. We will try to generate money through CSR. We can also get grant from Khelo India Sports Infrastructure Development Scheme.
“Even the State Government can help us. This academic session they have helped Aurangabad University. Next year we will submit our proposal,” Dr Suryawanshi had informed.
“During the Senate meeting Dr Smita Wanjari informed that RTMNU, which would be celebrating its centenary year in 2023-24 we (RTMNU) will be getting Rs 50 crore from the State Government. We can get some funds from this money for sports complex,” hoped former international athlete Dr Suryawanshi.

NDFA ready for kick-off: Vora

 

 

By Paritosh Pramanik

THE football season of Nagpur would be starting in a couple of weeks. The soccer governing body of district—Nagpur District Football Association (NDFA) has started preparation for the delayed season which has been stopped since February after fresh waves of COVID-19.
The JSW Senior Division league, which was halted abruptly with matches of only one group completed, will be completed first, once the game kicks-off.
“We are planning to restart competition in next 15 days. The ground will be ready in a couple of weeks,” NDFA President Haresh Vora told ‘The Hitavada.’
NDFA will be conducting matches at its Bharat Ratna Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Football Stadium situated in Suyog Nagar, North Nagpur.
“We were waiting for some more relaxation in timing from the local authorities. Now, as the timing has been extended, we can hold the matches,”said Vora.
“We don’t have floodlights hence we can’t hold matches after 6 pm. In earlier restriction in timing, it was not possible for us to conduct matches as it takes at least three to four hours to complete a match,” Vora explained.
Matches of Group A of Senior Division have been completed while a few matches of Group B are remaining.
Matches of Group C and Group D are yet to start.
“The transfer process and affiliation of Elite Division clubs are going on. Once it is completed we can chalk out the fixtures and date for the top division league,” Vora said.
    n

On Indian hockey’s proudest day, VHA continues to remain in a shambles

 

 

By Paritosh Pramanik

IT’S painful, very painful.
When Indian hockey teams rewrote history by booking semi-final spots at Tokyo Olympics, here in Nagpur the game continues to tread towards a slow death. The Vidarbha Hockey Assocaition (VHA) is in pathetic condition both on and off the field.
Since the seven-decade old association got disaffiliated by Hockey India citing One State One Unit rule, the game has received a big jolt in Vidarbha. If that was not enough, the infighting amongst the executive committee forced the Nagpur bench of Bombay High Court to appoint an administrator to look into the matter “until the matter is solved.”
To made matter worse, the caretakers of the game (life members and other so-called closely associated with the game) are paying least attention towards upkeep of the field. A look a the hockey ground, off Amravati Road, reveals the sorry state of affairs.
The ground, which once used to be lush green, well-trimmed with Bermuda grass, is now full of knee-height weeds. There is hardly any space to play hockey, leave aside warming up or stretching exercises. The court-appointed Administrator has a very easy excuse of COVID-19 pandemic and lack of funds, but it is disheartening to see the members, most of whom are in their 70s, turning a blind eye towards the sport which has given them name and fame.
Recently a beautiful mural of hockey legend Major Dhyanchand has been constructed beside the entrance gate by the NMC funds. But that looks only cosmetic development.
Olympian Ashok Kumar, son of Dhyanchand will, in all probability, inaugurate the mural. But what will shock him will be the condition of ground.
A glance at the ground shows the real picture. The goalposts are enveloped with thick, tall grass and are broken. There is hardly any space to walk, leave aside dribble the ball.
The newly-constructed hall is yet to be inaugurated and is being covered in dust.
The ground can be developed into one of the best stadiums in the country, given its central location but for that it will be imperative for the ‘fathers of the game’ to sit together and think in a constructive way.
However, an opportunist faction, which is associated with VHA but has no powers after court’s order, immediately jumped on the opportunity and revived their Nagpur District Hockey Association and applied for district affiliation with Hockey Maharashtra leaving VHA to die its own death.
The infighting among the members has ruined careers of hundreds of players in last few decades and if such bickering continues, the day is not far when the ground would be swallowed up by those with vested intention and Nagpur would be unable to produce even a state level player.

Olympian Ashok Kumar ‘mesmerised’ by Dhyanchand’s mural at VHA

 

 

By Paritosh Pramanik

OLYMPIAN Ashok Kumar, son of legendary hockey player Major Dhyanchand, was mesmerised with the mural that has been put up beside the gate of Vidarbha Hockey Association ground, Amravati Road.
Corporator Kishor Jichkar was instrumental in constructing the mural beside VHA gate from his corporator’s funds.
Speaking with ‘The Hitavada’ over phone Ashok Kumar said he is very happy that his father’s mural is being erected at Nagpur.
“I have never imagined that a mural of hockey legend Dhyanchand would come up at a place like Nagpur.
“But yes, I would admit that Nagpurians have always showered their love upon us—on Dhyanchand as well as on me. I remember when I was invited to inaugurate a square named after Dhyanchand near hockey ground,” said Ashok Kumar.
“It (the mural) looks so real. I am speechless. I can’t express my gratitude towards Nagpurians and hockey lover Kishor Jichkarji,” Ashok Kumar expressed his views.
The 1972 Munich Olympian said he will ask people at his native Jhansi to construct such murals which looks beautiful, full of life.
“Actually this is a very good idea. I want to construct it at Jhansi as well,” said Ashok Kumar, the 1975 hockey World Cup winner. Ashok Kumar recalled his golden days when he played a few games at Nagpur.
“I have very fond memories of Nagpur. I have played many tournaments here. Not only myself, even Dadda (Dhyanchand) had played and visited Nagpur on many occasions. He too had memories of this beautiful city,” recalled Ashok Kumar.
The three-time world cupper wished to come to Nagpur during the inauguration of the mural.
“I would definitely love to come to Nagpur for the inauguration, time permits.
“It would be great to be part of this historic moment,” said Ashok Kumar who played World Cups in 1971 (Barcelona), 1973 (Amsterdam) and 1975 (Kuala Lumpur).
Speaking further Ashok Kumar said Nagpur has a rich history of hockey and hoped that the game lovers of the region take inspiration from the mural.
“I am well aware of the hockey history of Nagpur. The mural will further inspire kids to take up hockey and even those associated with the game at present to take it to new heights,” said the hockey great who has played three Asian Games winning silver on all the occasions.

Major Dhyanchand comes ‘alive’ at VHA

 

 Beautiful mural to greet hockey lovers at Vidarbha Hockey Association gate

By Paritosh Pramanik

WITH the Indian hockey team making it to the quarter-finals at Tokyo Olympics, thousands of miles away in Nagpur the game has got another identity in the city.
Even though hockey is at its ebb in the region and is fighting for its survival, there is a thin ray of hope that the game would continue to live.
After the square being named after the hockey legend Major Dhyanchand, a mural of one of the greatest hockey players of the world is taking shape in the city.
With the efforts of NMC Corporator Kishor Jichkar, a mural of Major Dhyanchand is coming up beside the gate of Vidarbha Hockey Association (VHA) ground, off Amravati Road. The mural will be completed in a couple of days and will be officially inaugurated by Nagpur Mayor Dayashankar Tiwari.
Tiwari also happens to be a former official of VHA.
The beautiful mural has couple of photographs of Dhyanchand. The legend can be seen standing with a hockey stick in his hand. There is also a close-up photo of the legend.
Players of yesteryears are also seen dribbling, most probably during the 1936 Berlin Olympics.
The back portion of mural is decorated with tricolour along with spectators ‘watching’ the beautiful game, which India once dominated.
“The entire mural is made of fibre and measures 6ft x 9ft,” Jichkar informed ‘The Hitavada’.
“The idea came to my mind during one of the functions held at VHA ground last year. What else place would be better that at the home of hockey in the city,” said Jichkar.
“Now-a-days it is very difficult to erect a statute. There are lot of permissions to be taken and other formalities are also very difficult to complete.
“And above all, there is a trend of constructing murals in the city,” said the corporator when asked about his decision to construct the mural.
The mural is a combination of several photographs of Dhyanchand and it took several months to finalise the pictures.
“With the help of former hockey players Raju Reddy, Vivek Siriah and late Yagya Thakur, we collected the photographs. It took several months to select the pictures. Then, the artist made a collage of a few photos and then converted it into the fibre mural,” informed Jichkar.
“The mural will be illuminated in the evening which will add to its beauty,” added Jichkar.
In 2016, the square in front of VHA ground was named as Dhyanchand Square which was inaugurated by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

Ground breaking ceremony of varsity’s synthetic track today

 

 

 Sports Reporter

GROUND breaking ceremony of Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University’s (RTMNU) synthetic track that will come up on D Lakshminarayan Sports Premises will be held at 10.00 am on Sunday, informs Dr Sharad Suryawanshi, Director, Department of Sports and Physical Education (RTMNU) though a press release.
Cabinet Minister Nitin Gadkari would perform the ‘ bhoomipujan’ at the site that will replace the present cinder track. Guardian Minister Nitin Raut, Maharashtra Sports Minister Sunil Kedar will be chief guests on the occasion.
City Mayor Dayashankar Tiwari will be the special guest at the function.
Vice-Chancellor Dr Subhash Chaudhari, Pro-VC Dr Sanjay Dudhe and Registrar Dr Raju Hiwse will be prominently
present.
The work of making the track has been entrusted to the Public Works Department and RTMNU will spent Rs 10.60 lakh for the entire project.
The contractor for the track is Sports Facilities Company Limited, Mumbai and the work is expected to be complete in nine months.
The track, that will be constructed as per the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) norms will have the following — it will be an eight-lane track, water tank of steeple chase event will be at the centre of the track, jumping pits for long and triple jumps will be there, the entire track would be fenced and will have two doors apart form one main entrance, the track will also house an grass surface football ground, cages will be in place for hammer throw and discus throw and flood light will ensure that competitions can be held in day as well as night time.
Following the COVID protocol, only a few invitees including varsity officials, members of management council and members of sports and physical education board will be present during the function.

PANDEMIC, UNEMPLOYMENT FORCE WORLD CHAMPION IRSHAD TO QUIT CARROM

 

 

By Paritosh Pramanik

FROM now onwards we won’t be witnessing White Slams or Black Slams from this world champ. International Carrom Federation champion Irshad Ahmed has been ‘forced’ to quit the game on which his livelihood depended.
The coronavirus pandemic, which is continuing to wreak havoc around the globe, has ‘trapped’ Irshad too. With no action since last one and a half year, the jobless Irshad has decided to say good-bye to carrom and use his energy in finding ways to feed his family. Carrom tournaments were his earning source, though it was not a major income. Yet, it was enough for Irshad to feed his family.
Now with financial crisis looming large Irshad had no other option than to quit the game. He occasionally visits carrom clubs but it’s only for leisure.
“It’s all over. I have decided to quit the game. It’s now family first for me. I have had my time. Now it’s the time to concentrate on family. It’s (leaving carrom) painful but there is no other option,” was Irshad’s reply when asked about returning to the board whenever the conditions are favourable.
In 2019 December, city’s Irshad had clinched the International Carrom Federation Cup in Mumbai to hog all the limelight.
Things were going smooth until COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020 turned the world upside down.
Irshad decided to drive autorickshaw to feed his joint family of 12 members. He somehow managed to earn the daily bread but as the lockdown continued, he found it difficult to gather two square meals for his family.
“A few months back, the bank seized my autorickshaw as I was unable to pay the monthly installments,” Irshad revealed.
“With age catching up, I won’t be getting any government job. Above all, my lack of education is the biggest hindrance,” said the 37 years old, who could not complete his matriculation.
At present, Irshad is working as a daily wager as there are no orders for his AC Ducting work.
“I used to do AC Ducting in malls and offices. But as all malls and offices are closed, I am unable to earn livelihood.
“I am daily searching for job. On occasions I work at hosiery shops and stitch inner wears. But that too is not permanent,” Irshad said in a painful voice.
“I don’t want any financial aid from anybody. I am strong enough to feed my family. Last time, I got help from my near and dear ones but now my conscience doesn’t allow me to ‘beg’ in front of people,” Irshad proudly said.
What pains Irshad a lot is lack of support from carrom association officials who have shown their back in the time of need. “Not a single official has helped me till date. They all gave assurance after I won the International Federation Cup but those were only hollow words,” rued Irshad.
“The carrom chapter is over,” he resigned.
The finger artistry with which he scored those Slams is over. Irshad is now preparing to show his other skills with his head held high.

Government turning blind eye as badminton coaches cry for help

 

 

By Paritosh Pramanik

THEIR requests are falling on deaf ears. The authorities are playing very safe citing the threat of coronavirus infection. But badminton coaches of the city are on the verge of ‘collapsing’. They are finding acute difficulty in making ends meet.
Since March 2020 lockdown, several NGOs and businessmen came forward to financially help sportspersons in difficulty. But the coaches of the city have been totally ignored. Every one, from government to NGOs to all Good Samaritans, have neglected these coaches, who rely only on their income from coaching.
Badminton coaches, around 40 in the city, are living in a state of distress. For more than a year, they are fighting for their survival. Hardly anybody is paying any heed to their genuine demands. Their savings have dried up and coaches are forced to break their FDs and SIPs prematurely.
‘The Hitavada’ contacted a few coaches of the city who are instrumental in producing district, state and national level champions.
Renowned coach of city Ajay Dayal said these are very testing times for all of them. He is imparting coaching to shuttlers for past 12 seasons and has produced international players like Ritika Thaker, Rohan Gurbani, Sourabh Kerhalkar.
“There are around 35-40 players I am imparting coaching. At present only physical training is being given as all the indoor halls are closed,” Dayal told this newspaper.
“The income has dried up due to lockdown. I am at present charging only for outdoor activities. But it is not sufficient to feed a family of four,” said Dayal.
Dayal asked while in other States indoor halls are open why is it not in Maharashtra.
“I don’t know why government is not allowing indoor sports activities. In other States all players are practicing and there is no problem,” said Dayal.
The ace coach feels that if such attitude of the Government continues, they would be forced to take extreme steps.
“The Government is forcing coaches to take extreme step  because all indoor coaches are ‘jobless’ and frustrated due to continuous restriction of indoor activities. I am surviving on my savings till now and on SIPs but those are also now not sufficient,” said Dayal.
Another acclaimed coach Jayendra Dhole, who has coached medal winning players like Aasavari Khandekar, Aditi Sadhankar, Ameya Naktode, said he is finding it very difficult to manage school fees of his kids and other family expenses as everything is getting costlier day by day.
“I think Government is not understanding the problems coaches. I don’t think they have any idea that most of the coaches fully depend on coaching and they are not doing this for recreation. All other things are open except indoor sports and this is clear bias towards not only badminton but to other indoor sports as well,” said Dhole.
“These are very difficult times but I am a positive person and hope this time will pass soon,” added Dhole who is in coaching field for the past 20 years and has also coached India shuttler Malvika Bansod.
Dhole was pragmatic as he said that though the coaches are suffering, at the same time its the loss of players as well.
“Without any income its really difficult to sustain for one and half year and if this continues, players will suffer. Other state players are practicing but our players and parents are in dilemma whether to continue with sports or better fully focus on studies. It’s not good for sports at all,” Dhole reasoned.
Jibi Varghese, who runs Jibi School of Sports, said his number of students came down to 10 only since the pandemic broke.
“At present we are giving online training to the players both locally and outstation,” said Varghese who has coached players like Vaidehi Choudhari, Gandhar Nawale, Mugdha Agrey, Anura Prabhudesai, Dipti Kuity, Dapasha Joshi, Hritika Sharma Rudra Rane to name a few.
Varghese said he can’t challenge the Government rules but “a sympathetic view can help and support us all.”
“One has to look from both the angles - safety and security of people and their livelihood. We are lucky enough that parents, players and friends have helped us greatly and stood up with us during these testing times,” he said as a matter of fact.
Badminton Star Academy’s coach Amit Raut, too, feels its high time Government takes decision in coaches favour.
“I completely rely on coaching. My father passed away in April and I am the only bread earner in my family. I have to take care of my mother as well,” said Raut, who has produced medal winning shuttlers like Arya Bhujade, Aditua Yaul, Sanvi Jaiswal and many more.
Raut says that parents of players are financially helping them but for how long he should seek assistance from them.
“Some parents of players and friends are helping me financially to meet the basic daily needs of my family. But it’s been one-and-half year now since they are helping us and we are unable to repay as stadiums are continuously closed,” rued Raut.
Vishal Naik of Vishal Badminton Academy is dependent on his father since lockdown. “My father is a retired SBI employee. He is the only support to my family. He is paying my daughter’s school fees and all other expenses,” Naik revealed.
“Everything like gyms, bar, restaurants, market and other fields are open. Badminton coaching should also be given permission. We are ready to follow all the rules,” he said.

NIS boxing coach Ganesh Purohit’s Rise To ‘Stardom’

 

By Paritosh Pramanik

HIS role might be for a few seconds, but NIS boxing coach Ganesh Purohit has instantly become a ‘star’ after his ‘silver screen’ debut.
Farhan Akhtar starer Toofaan, which was released on OTT on Friday has Purohit as coach of cine star’s one of the opponents.
Though Purohit, who is coach of Indian boxer Nagpur’s Alfiya Pathan, was on camera for hardly three or four seconds, his gentle tap on boxer Aziz Ali’s shoulder’s, the role Farhan played, and the encouraging words, earned him quite a fame in the city as well as in different parts of the country.
Purohit is basking in ‘glory’ after his ‘movie debut’ and said he is receiving several calls from his friends from all over
the country.
“I am surprised with the recognition I am getting for those ‘few seconds’ on the screen,” said Purohit from Sonipath where he is with the Maharashtra boxing squad for the 4th BFI Youth Nationals.
“They (his friends) are happily shocked and are asking me ‘aap filmo me kya kar rahe ho’. And I have no answers to their queries,” Purohit told ‘The Hitavada’.
That scene of a few seconds was actually shot for four days during which the NIS and well-acclaimed coach of Maharashtra felt tired.
“There was a lot of editing done. My ‘role’ was shot for more duration but it has been cut down to a few seconds. It took four days to finalise that shot by the director,” recalled Purohit. The movie, in which Farhan plays the role of ‘Dongri Dada’ and then becomes a State champion boxer ‘Aziz Ali’, is directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra. “There were few more shots where I had to take my boxer (Jagdish Thakur of Haryana) into the arena and then to the ring before the bout. But those have been edited,” said Purohit.
In the movie Purohit was seen tapping Farhan’s shoulder after the Bollywood star ‘controversially’ loses his semi-final bout (the result was later turned in his favour) and says “bahut achcha khele....well done.”
It was not an easy entry for Purohit as he had to give ‘screen test’ to get this role.
“We were in Kerala for a national meet where we were asked questions about boxing. Around 25-30 coaches were ‘interviewed’ after which they zeeroed in on me,” Purohit proudly said.
Purohit also got the opportunity to talk with Farhan during the shoot in Mumbai. “It was a brief chat during the shoot in Mumbai. We were sitting and he jokingly said to me: “Aap to original coach ho aur hum duplicate boxer hai.”
The movie also has Maharashtra Boxing Association Secretary Dr Rakesh Tiwari as a ringside doctor as well as Mumbai’s Priyadarshanadevi Padwal who was seen as a referee.
A certified referee, Padwal has also worked in another Bollywood movie ‘Holiday’ where she was seen officiating in one of the bouts featuring Sonakshi Sinha.

GM Sadhwani wins Austrian title, gets congratulatory message from Farhan Akhtar

 

 

By Paritosh Pramanik

INDIA’S one of the youngest Grandmasters Raunak Sadhwani is making his Eurpoean Tour a memorable one.
After the silver medal winning performance at the Sliver Lake Open Tournament in Serbia last month, the Nagpur lad bettered his show by clinching gold medal at the 40th St Veiter Jacques Leman International Open A Group Championship 2021 at St Viet an Der Glan in Austria on Saturday.
Fifteen-year-old Sadhwani stamped his authority with some incredible performance to claim the crown.
To add icing to the cake, Sadhwani was congratulated by none other than Bollywood star Farhan Akhtar.
After his title winning performance, Sadhwani twitted “Enjoyed my tournament victory by watching #toofan. It was an amazing movie, the story was brilliant. Great performance by @FarOutAkhtar and @SirPareshRawal looking forward to some more movies
like this!!”
Farhan replied: Congratulations Raunak and thank you so much..best wishes always.”
In the Austrian competition, top seed Sadhwani logged 8.5 points out of possible nine to wrest the coveted title. Sadhwani  finished on the podium with a rating performance of 2720 and also gained important 12 ELO rating points.
He once again kept his slate clean winning eight games and drawing only one.
On his way to the title, Sadhwani defeated Austrians Wallner Dieter Dr, Sucher Johannes Mag, Croatian WIM Berke Ana, Austrian Fide Master Matt Fabian, Croatian GM Rogic Davor, Austrians Kristoferitsch Daniel, FM Sandhofner Florian and Sv Asvo St Veit. He drew his only game against Saric Ante of Croatia. The competition saw 132 participants with maximum 92 taking part from host Austria. There were 21 chess masters from Germany, nine from Slovenia and five from Croatia. Sadhwani was the only participant representing India. Switzerland had two contestants while Belgium, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Ireland, Latvia and Serbia one each. Sadhwani was happy with his second podium finish in Europe.
“I am super happy with my performance. Winning a tournament, being a champion, is always so special...a nice feeling,” said Sadhwani.
The Grandmaster did not lose his focus in the entire tournament despite a hiccup in the previous competition. “I kept focusing on the game at hand and I want to continue in the same way.
“I want to keep myself motivated for the upcoming tournaments. I just want to play and enjoy this beautiful game of 64 squares,” said an elated Sadhwani. Sadhwani was rewarded with a prize of 1200 Pounds, a glittering and a Jacques Leman watch for his stellar performance.
This was Sadhwani’s third on the board competition since COVID-19 lockdown disrupted all the sporting activities around the globe.