Sri Vijaya Puram, July 21: To commemorate International Chess Day on 20th July, the Directorate of Education, in collaboration with the Andaman & Nicobar Chess Association (ANCA), organized an Open Blitz Chess Tournament on Sunday, 20th July 2025, from 3:00 PM onwards at the auditorium of Govt. Girls Sr. Sec. School, Sri Vijaya Puram. Celebrated under the global theme “Every Move Counts,” the event highlighted the strategic depth and life lessons embedded in the game of chess—where every decision matters, both on and off the board.
Shri Mohd. Irshad Ahmed, Assistant Director (PE/Sports), Directorate of Education, was the Chief Guest, while Shri Narasimha Moorthy, Assistant Commandant, IRBN, was the Guest of Honour. Both dignitaries jointly inaugurated the tournament by making the ceremonial first move on the top board.
The event witnessed participation from around 200 chess enthusiasts. After a series of fast-paced and thrilling matches, Yuvan Singh emerged as the winner, securing the first position, followed by Jaivardhan Rao K in second place and Rohan Singh in third. Shrestha Vijay D claimed the fourth position, while AFM Yashwant V and AFM Nimish Bantupalli secured the fifth and sixth positions, respectively. P S Satish finished seventh, J S Virat took the eighth spot, while B Lalith and ACM Chirag Kumar A secured ninth and tenth positions, respectively.
A major highlight of the evening was the chess exhibition, with friendly games played in the open, at the scenic Marina Park Walkway. Park visitors, families, and tourists paused to witness the intense yet friendly matches, many even trying their hand at the game. The exhibition successfully captured the spirit of International Chess Day, turning it into a community celebration that showcased the growing popularity, inclusivity, and cultural value of chess across the Islands.
Following the exhibition, the prize distribution ceremony was held at the scenic Marina Park Walkway. The top ten winners were felicitated with trophies and certificates, while promising young players who showcased notable performances were also appreciated with gifts.