Navigating the Future of Indian Chess: A Conversation with AICF President Nitin Narang

India’s historic double gold at the Olympiad has not only put the country on the world chess map but has also highlighted the immense talent and potential of India’s GenNext players. All India Chess Federation president Nitin Narang recently shared his thoughts on the future of Indian chess in an exclusive interview with The Indian Express.

Narang emphasized the responsibility of the federation to support and nurture the talented players who have brought glory to the nation. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by the players and their parents and expressed his commitment to providing them with the best facilities and support.

During the Olympiad, Indian chess players were treated like superstars, with fans from all over the world queuing up to catch a glimpse of them. The humility and dedication of the Indian players were praised by all, and the moment when the national anthem was played was a highlight for Narang.

As the world looks up to India for guidance in chess, Narang sees the AICF playing a crucial role in shaping the future of the sport globally. He emphasized the importance of generating sponsorships and revenue through global events and highlighted the need for broadcasters to attract more money into the sport.

Narang also discussed the introduction of AICF’s own player rating system, which aims to bring more players into the formal chess ecosystem. The system will provide recognition and opportunities for players to track their performances and progress in the game.

In addition, the AICF has announced financial support for young players, with player contracts for top performers at various age levels and FIDE-rated players. This initiative aims to encourage young players to continue pursuing chess as a career and provide them with the necessary support.

Overall, Narang’s vision for Indian chess is ambitious and promising, with plans to expand the reach of the sport, support players at all levels, and secure a strong position for India in the global chess community.