Union Ministers Felicitate Indian Chess Team for Winning Two Gold Medals at FIDE Chess Olympiad

Indian chess players were honored by Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, and Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Ms Raksha Khadse, for their outstanding performance at the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad in Budapest. The event celebrated the team’s two gold medals, which have brought immense pride to the nation.

During the felicitation ceremony, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya praised the players for their achievements, highlighting India’s rich connection with chess as a game that originated in the country. He emphasized the importance of brainpower in addition to manpower, stating that the government is committed to creating an ecosystem that nurtures talent in all sports disciplines.

The Union Minister announced India’s goal to be among the top five nations in the world in sports by 2024, emphasizing the crucial role of sporting achievements in the country’s global identity. He urged the medallists to serve as ambassadors of the youth, inspiring the next generation with their stories of hard work and dedication.

Dr Mandaviya encouraged the players to participate in the Ministry’s Viksit Bharat Ambassador – Yuva Connect Programme, aimed at channeling youth energy towards realizing the Prime Minister’s vision of a developed India by 2047. The Minister also engaged in a friendly chess match with Gukesh Dommaraju, a young chess prodigy.

India’s success at the Chess Olympiad included victories in both the men’s and women’s categories, with the teams defeating strong opponents to clinch the gold medals. Individual players also excelled, winning gold medals for their exceptional performances.

The chess champions expressed their gratitude for the recognition, stating that meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and being honored by Union Ministers has motivated them to continue working hard and making the nation proud. Their achievements serve as a testament to India’s growing prowess in the world of chess.