AICF to introduce Chess in School (CIS) programme

Our Reporter

Dimapur, Dec. 13 (EMN): Mughaho Awomi, on Monday stated that the All India Chess Federation (AICF) is set to introduce a compulsory Chess in School (CIS) programme as a curriculum subject across India, which is being discussed with the Central government.

Awomi, who is the joint secretary of AICF and a chess instructor in the dept. of Youth Resources and Sport (YRS), govt. of Nagaland, was speaking at the inaugural programme of the 1st edition District Chess Championship 2021 organised by the Dimapur District Chess Association (DDCA) and

He acknowledged the organisers in promoting the game and giving a platform to the youngsters to develop and excel their talent in the field.

Stating that there are around 20 Elo rated players registered in Nagaland, he added that there are many players in every Naga village but only few participate in official tournaments because of ignorance of the importance and benefit of chess.

Earlier, all the participants tied black ribbons on the left arm to show solidarity towards the Oting village incident.

The oldest participant is a 75 year old while the youngest participant is a six year old.

The winner of the championship for under-16 category will receive a cash prize of INR 6000, second prize INR 4000, third prize INR 2000, fourth prize INR 1000 and fifth prize INR 500. The open category winner will receive a cash prize of INR 15,000, second prize INR 10,000, third prize INR 5000, fourth prize INR 3000 and fifth prize INR 2000.

In the individual category, the best female player and young emerging player will receive a cash prize of INR 2000 each while the best veteran player will receive a cash prize of INR 3000.

A total of 31 players are participating under the two categories of under-16 and open category.