20th Nagaland State Chess Championship underway in Kohima

KOHIMA — The 20th Nagaland State Chess Championship, organised by the Nagaland Chess Association (NCA), got underway at Nagaland Olympic Association Office (NOA) complex, Kohima on Tuesday.

Vice president of Nagaland Chess Association (NCA), P Khezhie declared open the tournament. In his address, Khezhie maintained that chess is often hailed as the “game of kings” as it a profound blend of strategy, intellect and patience.

Highlighting the origin of chess that traces back to ancient India, where it was known as Chaturanga, he informed that over centuries, chess evolved and spread across the world, becoming a universal game of skill and strategy that transcends cultures and generations.

By the 15th century, chess reached Europe where it underwent further development and eventually took the form as it is recognised today, he said.

Maintaining that the importance of chess extends beyond mere entertainment, he said that it is a game that sharpens the mind, enhances cognitive abilities, and promotes critical thinking.

He also added that chess teaches valuable life skills such as patience, discipline, and strategic planning while it encourages fair play and sportsmanship, fostering a sense of respect and fellowship among players.

“Chess is more than a game; it is a mental workout. Studies have shown that playing chess Improves memory, problem-solving skills, and even creativity. It challenges the mind to think several moves ahead, considering numerous possibilities and outcomes,” he added.

Khezhie went on to say that chess is an excellent tool for teaching young minds how to approach complex problems methodically and strategically.

He further said the Nagaland Chess Association has a legacy of producing players who have excelled on various platforms. The NCA official also reiterated that some of the association’s activities such coaching classes would continue in all the districts.

Mughaho Awomi, honorary secretary of NCA, informed that the tournament will be conducted as per FIDE Laws of chess and FIDE Swiss system with nine rounds.

A total of 76 participants are competing in the three-day tournament that will culminate on August 1.

The youngest player is six-year-old Reku Haikam from Peren district.

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