Bhakti presented cheque of 2.30 lakhs

(Photo - Bhakti being presented a cheque by the Hon'ble Sports
Minister in presence of Executive Director, S.A.G. and G.S.C.A.
President)


National Junior Girls Champion and Woman FIDE Master
Bhakti Kulkarni was presented a cheque of Rs. 2.30
lakhs by the Sports Minister Manohar Azgaonkar
in a function in Margao, today.

Bhakti received the amount towards various performances
in the past at the International and National level. She
enjoys the distinction of being Goa's first titled player
as well as the youngest three time consecutive winner of
the Goa State Championship.

President of Goa State Chess Association Salgaocar praised the role
of the Goa Chief Minister, Sports Minister, Sports Authority of Goa
and especially Executive Director (S.A.G.) V.M. Prabhudesai in getting
the amount released in time. 'Bhakti is at a critical point in
her chess career', he stated adding that this amount
'will go a long way in securing her financial security
while she pursues her chess career further'.

In the latest FIDE rating list, Bhakti's rating has shot up considerably.
A spate of international tournaments await her, especially after she
completes her tenth standard exams in April. She is being coached
presently by India's first Dronacharya awardee Raghunandan Gokhale.
Let us hope that in 2008, she can continue to earn more laurels for
both Goa and India!