New Delhi – President Droupadi Murmu has lauded the exceptional performance of Indian chess players on the global stage, stating that India is dominating the sport like never before. Her remarks came during an Independence Day felicitation ceremony where top-performing athletes and sportspersons were recognized for their achievements.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu noted that Indian chess has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, with the country producing a record number of Grandmasters, achieving podium finishes in prestigious tournaments, and challenging traditional chess powerhouses like Russia, the USA, and China.
India’s Chess Boom: From Anand to the New Generation
President Murmu credited Viswanathan Anand’s pioneering legacy for inspiring generations of players. She pointed out that while Anand put India on the chess map in the 1980s and 90s, the current wave of young talent is rewriting history by achieving unprecedented success in multiple formats—classical, rapid, blitz, and online chess.
“Our players are no longer just participants; they are title contenders. The discipline, focus, and strategic brilliance they show is a reflection of the spirit of New India,” President Murmu said.
She emphasized that the average age of top-performing Indian players is steadily falling, showcasing the depth of talent emerging from the country’s grassroots training programs.
Record Grandmaster Count and Rising ELO Ratings
India currently has 83 Grandmasters (GMs)—a number that has more than doubled in just the last decade. Several young prodigies have also crossed the 2700+ ELO rating mark, a feat once dominated by a handful of global elites.
| Year | Number of Indian Grandmasters | Top Indian Player Rating | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 23 | Anand – 2790 | World Championship title |
| 2015 | 37 | Harikrishna – 2743 | Top 15 global ranking |
| 2020 | 66 | Anand – 2753 | Online Olympiad Gold |
| 2024 | 83 | Gukesh – 2765 | Candidates Tournament win |
| 2025* | 90+ (projected) | Praggnanandhaa – 2772 | World No. 3 (live rating) |
International Titles and Tournament Success
The last three years have been particularly remarkable for Indian chess:
- R Praggnanandhaa became the youngest player to reach a World Cup final, defeating several top-10 opponents.
- D Gukesh won the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2024, becoming the youngest challenger for the World Chess Championship in history.
- Indian women’s chess has also seen a surge, with Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli securing consistent top rankings and Vaishali Rameshbabu making history as a Woman Grandmaster (WGM) and International Master (IM) in the same year.
Factors Driving India’s Chess Renaissance
According to chess federations and sports analysts, several factors have contributed to this meteoric rise:
- Grassroots Training Programs – Chess academies in Chennai, Pune, and Delhi producing world-class players.
- Government Support – Increased funding under the Khelo India Scheme for mental sports.
- Digital Platforms – Online chess platforms enabling Indian players to train and compete globally without travel barriers.
- Corporate Sponsorships – Private sector involvement in sponsoring players for international events.
India vs. The World: Chess Power Rankings
| Country | Top 10 Ranked Players (FIDE) | Total Grandmasters | Recent Major Titles |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | 3 | 83 | Candidates 2024, World Cup Finalist |
| Russia | 4 | 245 | Multiple Olympiad wins |
| USA | 3 | 115 | World Championship 2018 |
| China | 2 | 50 | Women’s World Champion |
President Murmu’s Call for Chess in Education
In her address, President Murmu suggested that chess be introduced in school curricula as a tool for enhancing problem-solving skills, memory, and concentration among children.
“Chess is not just a sport; it is a mental discipline. The ability to think ahead, calculate scenarios, and adapt to challenges mirrors life itself. If our children learn these skills early, they will excel not just in sports but in all walks of life,” she said.
The proposal received applause from attendees, with sports administrators noting that India’s National Education Policy 2020 already encourages such skill-based learning initiatives.
The Global Chess Community’s Reaction
International chess experts have acknowledged India’s rise with admiration. Magnus Carlsen, the reigning World No. 1, has repeatedly called India “the future of chess”. Several elite events now feature multiple Indian players in the top seeds, a scenario rarely seen even five years ago.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The chess boom is also yielding economic benefits:
| Impact Area | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Tourism & Events | Hosting major tournaments boosts local economies |
| Sponsorship Revenue | Corporate endorsements for players and events |
| E-Learning Platforms | Growth in paid chess coaching subscriptions |
| Merchandise & Media | Chess books, videos, and streaming content boom |
The Road Ahead: Sustaining the Momentum
While India’s current dominance is undeniable, chess experts warn that sustained investment, infrastructure, and international exposure are critical to maintaining the lead. The All India Chess Federation is already planning regional training centers and international exchange programs to keep players at par with global competitors.
President Murmu concluded her speech with a motivational call:
“We must aim to not just dominate the present but to build a legacy that will inspire generations. The chessboard is our world stage—let us play with wisdom, courage, and determination.”
Disclaimer: This news article is based on official speeches, sports federation updates, and public records. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional sports or investment advice.
