Arshiya Das: Northeast India’s First Women’s International Master at Just 15!

Arshiya Das Makes History as Northeast India’s First Women’s International Master at Just 15

February 22, 2026, 08:06 IST

In a remarkable achievement that has put Northeast India on the global chess map, 15-year-old Arshiya Das has become the region’s first Women’s International Master (WIM). Competing in the prestigious 42nd Rudar IM Round Robin tournament in Serbia, Arshiya secured her final WIM norm with an impressive score of 6.5 out of 9.

Arshiya’s journey to this historic milestone is a testament to her dedication and talent. While the eastern part of India has seen male players like Koustav Chatterjee and Soham Das rise to the rank of International Masters, the absence of a female counterpart from Northeast India has long been felt. Arshiya’s victory not only fills this gap but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring female chess players in the region.

Her father, Purnendu Das, expressed immense pride in his daughter’s accomplishments. “We are very happy because we know she is actually very dedicated to chess. It was her dream for a long time to become a national champion,” he told The Times of India. Arshiya previously clinched the Under-15 National Championship title in November 2025 and earned a bronze medal at the Senior National Women’s Championships.

Recognizing her potential, Purnendu and his family made the strategic decision to send Arshiya to Europe for her final WIM norm. “We saw that she is at her peak. So we planned to send her to Europe because all the norms come from there,” he explained. With her 10th board exams approaching, the family aimed to ensure she achieved her goals before her academic commitments intensified.

Arshiya’s chess journey began in an unconventional manner. Unlike many prodigies who train in formal academies, she was introduced to the game at home. Her parents used chess as a playful incentive to encourage her to finish her breakfast. “This was around 2015. You know, when you have to make the children eat breakfast before sending them to school, you need to give them something in their hands,” Purnendu recalled.

As Arshiya Das steps into the spotlight as a trailblazer for female chess players in Northeast India, her story serves as a reminder of the region’s rich potential and the importance of nurturing young talent. With her historic achievement, Arshiya not only paves the way for future generations but also showcases the spirit of resilience and excellence that defines the athletes of Northeast India.