Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 23: The Andaman & Nicobar Chess Association (ANCA) in collaboration with Carmel Alumni, Port Blair introduced Chess in School Program for the students of Class 1 and 2 of Carmel Sr. Sec. School, Sri Vijaya Puram. The inaugural function of the program was held on 22nd Nov. 2025 at Mother Veronica Auditorium.
The program began with a ceremonial first move by the President of Carmel Alumni, Shri Manohar Lal along with the Vice Principal Sr. Jismi, AC. This was followed by a counter move by Miss Kashthuri Bhai, Chess Prodigy from the Islands who has represented India at the International Level Chess Championship.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Denis Giles on behalf of Carmel Alumni welcomed the gathering and explained that the Alumni has been trying its best to introduce programs and activities for the betterment of the school from time to time, with the active support of the Principal and the school management. The Chess Program is one such activity by the Alumni in association with ANCA which is expected to go a long way in the overall development of the students.
Shri B. Neelaiah, General Secretary, ANCA and also an International Arbiter explained the benefits of the Chess. He said that Chess is not just a game but a means to avoid distraction especially among students. Starting Chess at a tender age will help the children focus better on all aspects, paving way to an overall development.
On the occasion, Shri Denis Giles on behalf of the Carmel Alumni felicitated the Chess Prodigy and International Medalist Kashthuri Bhai for making the Islands proud.
The Chess Program will be conducted on every Saturdays, initially for Class 1 and 2.