'At 13, Parimarjan is better than Anand'

New Delhi, Aug 17 (UNI) Even after becoming India's youngest Grandmaster, Parimarjan Negi shows no signs of complacency and is keen on working on his problem areas in his quest to become the World Champion.

''I am excited to become the youngest Indian Grandmaster. It is truly a momentous occasion,'' the 13-year-old told reporters on the sidelines of a felicitation function here today.

''However, there are still areas I need to work upon to achieve my ultimate objective which is becoming the world chess champion,'' Parimarjan said.

Parimarjan, who achieved his final Grandmaster norm last month at an age of 13 years and 142 days, cites poor opening as one of his shortcomings.

''I tends to fumble in the start. I think, I need to work upon my opening a bit,'' admitted Parimarjan, who has trained with some the best in the business including former World championship finalist Nigel Short.

The wunderkid is a huge admirer of Viswanathan Anand and wants to emulate Vishy's success even as his trainer Vishal Sareen pegs him better than Anand when the latter was 13.

''I would say he is more composed overall and have no hesitation in pronouncing that Vishy was not as good when he was of Parimarjan's age,'' Sarin said adding, ''however after becoming Grandmaster, the going has become all the more tough for Parimarjan and the prodigy will have keep working hard and improving everyday if has to attain Anand's current stature.'' Meanwhile, Parimarjan was presented a check of Rs 1 lakh by All India Chess Federation vice-president and Parsvnath Developers group chairman Praveen Jain.

UNI DH YA RN1917