Ivana gets Rs 5 lakh award from SAG

World under-8 chess champ, Ivana Furtado was today presented a cash award of Rs 5 lakh by Sports Minister, Mr Pandurang Madkaikar in the presence of her parents Ms Jennifer and Mr Eli Furtado at the Secretariat, Porvorim, for her outstanding performance at the prestigious official FIDE-world chess championship held in Georgia.

It came as a birthday gift for Ivana who turned eight today. When the matter was brought to the notice today at the SAG general body meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mr Pratapsing Rane by Mr Jovito Lopes, SJAG president, who also pointed out that it was Ivana’s birthday and that Sports Minister, Mr Pandurang Madkaikar had made the announcement about the cash award long ago as per the pattern of assistancce, Mr Madkaikar was quick enough to sportingly respond that it would be given today itself. Mr Madkaikar’s gesture was promptly applauded by all. Mr Mario Pinto, SAG treasurer, ordered that the cheque book be brought at the venue. It was written, signed and stamped then and there and the cheque handed over. For the first time, SAG had reacted with super speed, never seen before. It was a gesture to be highly appreciated and treasured as well.

Meanwhile, Ivana’s father, Mr Eli expressed gratitude and appreciation to the government and especially Chief Minister Mr Partaspsing Rane, Sports Minister Mr Pandurang Madkaikar, Mr Mario Pinto, SJAG, press, SAG officials, members and staff, Dr Susana de Sousa, Mr V M Prabhudesai, Mr Sameer Salgaocar, GSCA president, fans, her supporters and her school - Our Lady of Rosary HS Dona Paula, for their wonderful support and motivation that he said will certainly inspire her daughter to reach greater heights.