We saved VHA’s existence: Bhartia

By Paritosh Pramanik
Nagpur, Nov 12

THE 2007 elections of Vidarbha Hockey Association (VHA) might have been the semi-final for incumbent president BC Bhartia but the coming poll on November 16 will turn out to be the final for him as well as his VHA Development Panel.
Bhartia will be contesting for president’s post for third straight term. However, like previous two elections (2005, 2006) where over 400 voters took part in elections, this time less number of voters will use their franchise making it a sort of last dash for the top post.
Speaking to the ‘The Hitavada’, Bhartia looked tired but relieved after campaigning for almost entire day, meeting and contacting life members. “Development Panel members are meeting almost all voters and the response is tremendous. They are appreciating our work. In last seven years we have developed two beautiful lawn grounds. Everybody knows how bad was the playing condition earlier,” said Bhartia.
The VHA chief was of the view that voters would prefer his young and energetic team which has worked for development of the game. “We have a great team of workers who are young and energetic. It is because of young Vinod Gawai (present secretary) and his team of members, we have succeeded in presenting this lush green turf to the players,” Bhartia said.
He did not forget to mention how difficult were the last couple of years when they had to fight for VHA’s existence.
“After Hockey India took over the reigns of Indian hockey, our body (VHA) was on the verge vanishing. But we managed to get Hockey India affiliation and today our teams are participating in Hockey India’s nationals. Several attempts were made to dissolve VHA body. I was even offered the treasurer’s post by Suresh Kalmadi of Hockey Maharashtra but I told him that I would not move up at the expense of VHA’s death,” Bhartia averred.
He looked confident of winning the elections and said voters would choose development ahead of their personal relations.
“We are working for the development of VHA and hockey players of the region. We also conducted an all India level tournament which was well appreciated by Hockey India and its officials,” 
On his panel’s future plans, Bhartia said they are planning to help players get job in PSUs.
“Our plans are ready. We would be approaching several public sector units requesting them to provide jobs to our players.”