Is AICF Transforming Chess with Its New Stipend Scheme?

New Delhi, June 25 (NationPress) In a transformational move for Indian chess, the All India Chess Federation (AICF) has officially introduced the Top National Players Stipend Scheme (TNPSS). This innovative financial support program aims to significantly enhance the development of chess talent across the country.

This visionary initiative, fervently supported by AICF President Nitin Narang, underscores an unmatched commitment to cultivating the emerging chess stars of India from the grassroots level.

“This is not merely a scheme; it embodies our deep-seated belief in the potential of every young chess player in India,” Narang stated.

“For the very first time in our history, we are making a direct investment in the future of our 'golden girls and boys', providing them with the financial foundation they require to turn their talent into success. This goes beyond mere assistance; it's a testament to our unwavering support and a spark for their aspirations,” he added.

In alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of empowering athletes at the grassroots level, TNPSS has swiftly rolled out its inaugural quarterly stipends, varying from a notable Rs 60,000 to an impressive Rs 1,50,000, directly credited to the accounts of the top young chess talents in India.

“One of our primary goals is to elevate the significance of national tournaments, as they are crucial for establishing a robust chess ecosystem in India. It is within these national competitions that we can spot and nurture talent,” Narang elaborated.

A total of Rs 42,30,000 has been allocated for the months of April to June of this financial year, benefiting deserving players across categories from Under 7 to Under 19, both open and girls, based on their exceptional performances in last year's national events.

President Narang shared the rationale behind TNPSS, “For far too long, financial limitations have overshadowed the ambitions of our chess players. The costs associated with travel, training, and international competitions often compel players to give up their dreams, which is a significant loss for our nation. TNPSS is our definitive response to these obstacles, marking a bold shift towards a player-oriented policy that allows our youth to concentrate on refining their skills and dominating the chessboard.”

This groundbreaking initiative is structured to provide substantial financial support to promising players from national competitions over a crucial span of two years. This essential assistance will dramatically reduce the financial pressures associated with training and global competition, enabling young players to fully dedicate themselves to their game and strive for excellence on the international stage without economic stress.

A total of 42 top-ranked players based on their performances at the national level last year are the initial beneficiaries of this forward-thinking scheme, showcasing the best talent across the U7, U9, U11, U13, U15, U17, and U19 categories.

The quarterly stipends are structured according to age and potential, ranging from Rs 60,000 for Under 7 to a significant Rs 1,50,000 for Under 19, highlighting AICF's comprehensive commitment.

The TNPSS boasts an ambitious budget allocation of Rs 6,15,60,000, signaling AICF's strategic investment in the future of Indian chess.

The first recipients of the Top National Players Stipend Scheme include:

Under 7:

Open: Devanarayanan Kalliyath, Prayank Gaonkar, Aaradhyo Guin

Girls: Aaranya R, Arpitangshi Bhattacharya, Saiaastha Singh

Under 9:

Open: Nidhish Shyamal, Aarit Kapil, Divith Reddy Adulla

Girls: Kiyanna Parihaar, Divi Bijesh, Vanshika Rawat

Under 11:

Open: Madhvendra Pratap Sharma, Advik Amit Agrawal, Aarav A

Girls: Pratitee Bordoloi, Aadya Gowda, Divi Bijesh

Under 13:

Open: Reyan Md, Sherla Prathamesh, Pranav Sai Ram R S

Girls: Saranya Devi Narahari, Nivedita V C, Nihira Koul

Under 15:

Open: Ilamparthi A R, Vaz Ethan, Sherla Prathamesh

Girls: Prishita Gupta, Jain Ashita, Saparya Ghosh

Under 17:

Open: Sriram Adarsh Uppala, Arpith S Bijoy, Jaiveer Mahendru

Girls: Tejaswini G, Kirthika B, Anupam M Sreekumar

Under 19:

Open: Adireddy Arjun, Sourath Biswas, Jaiveer Mahendru

Girls: Mrittika Mallick, Velpula Sarayu, Sneha Halder