Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug 24: A proud moment in the sporting history of the Islands was marked this morning with the grand inauguration of the 1st Andaman & Nicobar International FIDE Rated Open Chess Championship – 2025 at Jalsa Hall, Dollygunj, Sri Vijaya Puram this morning.
The tournament was formally inaugurated by Shri Arjun Sharma, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, along with the Guests of Honour – Shri Vinayak Chamadia, IAS, ADM (South Andaman) and Shri Vikram Singh, DANICS, Director of Education & Sports. The ceremonial first move was made by the Chief Guest against International Master Dinesh Sharma of Uttar Pradesh, symbolically declaring the tournament open.
In his address, the chief guest lauded the Andaman Nicobar Chess Association (ANCA) for hosting such a prestigious international tournament for the very first time in the Islands. Calling it a “proud moment that will inspire a new generation of chess players,” he urged the young participants to seize this golden opportunity to showcase their talent, gain invaluable exposure, and aim for greater heights in the world of chess.
Welcoming the gathering, Shri Tanveer Singh, Vice President, ANCA, extended heartfelt greetings to the dignitaries, participants, and chess enthusiasts from across India and abroad. He also expressed gratitude to the A & N Administration for its unwavering support in hosting the event.
This mega international tournament, carrying a prize fund of ₹7,00,000, has received an overwhelming response, attracting around 350 players from 20 Indian states along with international participants from Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the United States of America. With such diverse representation, the event has set a new benchmark for chess in the Islands.
The competition is being overseen by International Arbiter H. Dinesh as Chief Arbiter, supported by five other International Arbiters from Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Meghalaya, along with local arbiters, ensuring smooth and professional conduct of matches.
The tournament, which continues till 28th August 2025, promises to be tough competition with captivating games of sharp moves and smart play, while showcasing the Andaman & Nicobar Islands as an emerging hub for chess tourism.