Archive · 20 Jul 2026
AICF Launches Rs 42.3 Lakh Stipend for Young Chess Players
The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has started a new programme to help young chess players.
They gave Rs 42.3 lakh to 42 talented kids aged between 7 and 19.
This money will help them pay for coaching and travel so they can play in big competitions.
The AICF wants to make sure that kids don't have to stop playing chess because they don't have enough money.
This is a big step to make chess stronger in India and help young players become champions.
AICF disbursed Rs 42.3 lakh in quarterly stipends to 42 young chess players.
Stipends range from Rs 60,000 to Rs 1.5 lakh.
Players were selected based on their performance in the 2024 National Championships.
The programme aims to ease financial burdens and support coaching and travel.
This initiative is part of AICF's long-term strategy to build a robust chess ecosystem in India.
- Who
- All India Chess Federation (AICF)
- What
- Launched a Rs 42.3 lakh stipend programme for 42 young chess players
- When
- On World Chess Day
- Where
- India
- Why
- To ease financial burdens and support the development of young chess talent
Supporters of the Stipend Programme
Critics of the Stipend Programme
Financial Support for Young Players
Supporters of the Stipend Programme
The stipend programme provides crucial financial support to young chess players, helping them to focus on their training and competitions without financial burdens.
Critics of the Stipend Programme
Critics argue that the stipend amounts may not be sufficient to cover all expenses, and the programme could be more comprehensive.
Long-term Impact on Indian Chess
Supporters of the Stipend Programme
Supporters believe the programme will strengthen the grassroots structure of chess in India and nurture future champions.
Critics of the Stipend Programme
Critics question the long-term sustainability and impact of the programme, suggesting that more needs to be done to ensure its success.
- Total Amount Disbursed
- Rs 42.3 lakh
- Number of Beneficiaries
- 42
- Stipend Range
- Rs 60,000 to Rs 1.5 lakh
- Selection Criteria
- 2024 National Championships performance
- Age Groups Covered
- Under-7 to Under-19
- Announcement Date
- World Chess Day
- AICF President
- Nitin Narang
- Programme Goal
- To ease financial burdens and support coaching and travel