Celebrating Chess: Students Welcome Grandmaster Gukesh as AICF Launches Landmark Financial Support for Young Players on World Chess Day
Students Welcome Chess Grandmaster Gukesh with Creative Placards as AICF Launches Historic Support for Young Players
Chennai, October 10, 2023 — In a vibrant display of enthusiasm and creativity, school students gathered today to welcome Indian chess grandmaster Dommaraju Gukesh, fresh off his remarkable victory at the Candidates Tournament. The young fans showcased their excitement by holding placards designed like chess boards, celebrating Gukesh’s achievement and the spirit of the game.
The event coincided with a significant announcement from the All India Chess Federation (AICF), which unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at nurturing the next generation of chess talent in India. On this World Chess Day, the AICF revealed it would provide financial support to 42 of the country’s most promising young players, ensuring they can pursue their passion without the burden of financial constraints.
A total of ₹42.3 lakh in quarterly stipends was released to players aged between Under-7 and Under-19, across both Open and Girls categories. Each selected player, chosen based on their performances at the 2024 National Championships, will receive between ₹60,000 and ₹1.5 lakh.
AICF President Nitin Narang hailed the initiative as a landmark step for Indian chess. “Today is World Chess Day, and we are thrilled to support our young talents with this financial assistance. For the first time in Indian chess history, our prodigies will receive such support, allowing them to focus on their training and competitions without financial worries,” he stated.
The stipends are designed to cover essential coaching and travel expenses, enabling these young players to compete in international tournaments and elevate their game. Narang emphasized the importance of this initiative in building a robust grassroots system for chess in India, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to empower athletes.
“This is part of AICF’s ambitious plan to create a strong ecosystem for chess in India. We want to encourage every aspiring player: if chess is your dream, chase it. We are with you,” Narang concluded.
As Gukesh arrived to cheers and applause, the students’ placards served as a reminder of the bright future of chess in India, fueled by both the passion of its young players and the support of organizations like the AICF. The day marked not only a celebration of Gukesh’s achievements but also a commitment to fostering the next generation of chess champions.