Jalgaon, August 2, 2025 —
India’s next generation of chess prodigies have assembled at the scenic Anubhooti Mandap in Jain Hills, Jalgaon, as the 38th National Under-11 Chess Championship commenced with an inspiring opening ceremony led by Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse.
Drawing participation from over 550 talented players, including nearly 400 FIDE-rated contenders, the championship has drawn national attention as a critical platform to identify and nurture early-stage chess excellence.
The event mirrors India’s rising stature in global chess, with a nod to Divya Deshmukh’s recent triumph at the FIDE Women’s World Cup, celebrated as a beacon of hope for young Indian players.
🗣️ Minister’s Address:
In her keynote speech, Smt. Khadse emphasized:
“Opportunities at a young age lay the foundation for future success.”
She reiterated the government’s focus on grassroots sports development through initiatives like Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 and Khelo India, aimed at fostering a nationwide culture of fitness, sportsmanship, and youth empowerment.
The Minister lauded chess for its ability to instill discipline, strategy, and intellectual agility—qualities essential for success on and off the board.
♟️ Championship Highlights:
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Format: 11-round Swiss League tournament
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Participants: Children from across 20+ states and UTs, including Delhi, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Assam, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands
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Notable players:
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Advik Agrawal (Pune) — FIDE Rating: 2251
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Devi Bijesh (Kerala) — FIDE Rating: 1869
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The tournament is jointly organized by Jain Sports Academy, Jalgaon District Chess Association, Maharashtra Chess Association, and the All India Chess Federation, with Jain Irrigation as the primary sponsor.
A prize fund of ₹8 lakhs will be awarded across multiple categories, not just for champions but also recognizing remarkable performances, draws, and tactical brilliance.
🏅 Dignitaries Present:
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Smt. Smita Wagh (Member of Parliament)
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Shri Ashok Jain (Chairman, Jain Irrigation; Advisor, AICF)
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Shri Siddharth Mayur (Executive President, MCA)
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Shri Atul Jain (President, Jain Sports Academy)
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Shri Debashish Barua (Chief Arbiter)
The championship marks a milestone in Jalgaon’s sports journey, reflecting Maharashtra’s dedication to fostering chess talent and placing India firmly on the world chess map.
