BAI's financial assistance to ex-champ Meena Shah

The Badminton Association of India (BAI) presented a cheque of Rs.2.51 lakh to former national champion and Padma Shri awardee Meena Shah at her residence here Saturday.

This is part of BAI's commitment to give financial assistance to needy former players.

Shah, the badminton queen of the 1960s, has been bedridden for several years. She won the women's singles title at the National Championships seven years in a row (1959-65), the doubles thrice and the mixed doubles crown twice.

"It's a great effort on part of the BAI. I am thankful to its chief Akhilesh Das Gupta and others who have recognised my achievements," Shah said.

The Arjuna Awardee, also conferred Uttar Pradesh's Laxman Award, is the first player to get financial support.

The association, last month, set up a special fund of Rs.25 lakh to help needy former players.

"We are thankful to Akhilesh Das who has initiated such a scheme for former players, as it is a big boost for them," BAI secretary general Vijai Sinha said.