AICF Announces Financial Support for 42 Young Indian Chess Players

The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has announced financial support for 42 of India's most promising young chess players, aiming to help them continue pursuing the sport without worrying about the cost of training and competition. On World Chess Day, the federation released quarterly stipends worth Rs 42.3 lakh to players in the Under-7 to Under-19 age groups, across both Open and Girls categories. The players were selected based on their performances at the 2024 National Championships, with each receiving between Rs 60,000 and Rs 1.5 lakh. Calling it a landmark step, AICF president Nitin Narang said, "Today is World Chess Day, and the All India Chess Federation (AICF) is pleased to release the another instalment of quarterly stipends, ranging from ₹60,000 to ₹1,50,000, totalling ₹42,30,000, to 42 top players across the U7 to U19 categories (Open and Girls), based on their performances in the 2024 National Championships." Highlighting the significance of the initiative, he added, "This is the first time in the history of Indian chess that our players and prodigies are receiving such financial support, so they do not have to give up their passion due to financial constraints." According to the federation, the money is meant to cover coaching and travel expenses, allowing young players to compete in international tournaments and improve their game. Narang said, "These stipends will support their coaching and travel needs, enabling them to compete globally and pursue higher goals with confidence." He also described the programme as part of AICF's long-term effort to build a stronger grassroots system, saying, "This is part of AICF's ambitious plan to create a robust ecosystem for chess in India, inspired by the vision of Aadarniya Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji to empower and encourage athletes at the grassroots." Encouraging aspiring players, he concluded, "If chess is your dream, chase it. We are with you."