AICF Unveils ₹65 Crore Blueprint to Support Chess Players and Popularize the Game in India

The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has set an ambitious budget of ₹65 crore to provide financial and institutional support to professional and grassroots level players, as well as to popularize chess in every Indian household. This move comes on the heels of 17-year-old D Gukesh making history as the first-ever teen winner of the Candidates to qualify for the World Championship.

The AICF, under the leadership of president Nitin Narang, aims to address key challenges such as integrating chess into school curricula, introducing chess e-learning, identifying and nurturing talent, strengthening grassroots academies, and ensuring the sustainability of the federation.

Some of the key initiatives outlined in the blueprint include introducing national player contracts for U-7 to U-19 age groups, cash rewards for top players based on Fide rankings, support for state associations, and initiatives to promote women in chess. The AICF also plans to incentivize chess content creators, host national chess awards and development conferences, and establish a corporate chess league.

With a focus on long-term sustainability, the AICF is looking to collaborate with corporate partners and establish a management board comprising experienced professionals. The federation aims to enhance governance excellence and elevate the profile of chess through strategic partnerships and initiatives.

Overall, the AICF’s ₹65 crore blueprint signals a new era for chess in India, with a strong emphasis on supporting players at all levels and promoting the game across the country.