The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has unveiled an ambitious ₹65 crore budget and blueprint to revolutionize chess in India. This comprehensive plan aims to provide financial and institutional support to players at all levels, from grassroots to the elite, and to popularize the game across the nation.
The initiative comes on the heels of India’s historic success in the Candidates Tournament, where 17-year-old D Gukesh became the first-ever teen winner and qualified for the World Championship. The tournament also witnessed an unprecedented Indian representation, with five players competing in both the Open and Women sections.
The AICF’s plan addresses key challenges, including integrating chess into school curricula, introducing chess e-learning, identifying and nurturing talent, strengthening grassroots academies, and ensuring the sustainability of the federation.
Key Initiatives:
* National Player Contracts: AICF will introduce two-year contracts for national-level players from U-7 to U-19 age groups, providing financial support ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000. These players will promote chess through grassroots initiatives like ‘Meet the Champions’ in educational institutions.
* Cash Rewards for Top Players: Cash rewards will be allocated to the top 10 male and female Indian players based on their Fide rankings. The top five players will receive ₹25 lakhs, while those ranked between 6th and 10th will be rewarded ₹12.50 lakhs.
* Supporting State Associations: AICF will provide financial assistance to state associations over three years, with funds allocated for prize money, chess development activities, and establishing offices. Quarterly seminars will be conducted for capacity building.
* Women In Chess: The Smart Girl Program will be expanded with a minimum of 50 annual events, each supported by a ₹100,000 grant. Additionally, a 33% reservation for women will be implemented in key areas like coach and arbiter certification, participation in AICF-recognized events, and the Campus Ambassador Program.
* Incentivising Chess Content Creators: AICF will collaborate with Youtubers, influencers, and streamers to foster a thriving community of chess content creators. Mentorship from established creators will be provided to nurture new talent.
* National Chess Awards and Development Conference: Exceptional coaches and players will be honored, and industry leaders and universities will come together to advance chess through strategic workshops and discussions.
* Corporate Chess League: Corporates will be allowed to host AICF-rated tournaments by becoming members. A minimum prize money will be set for AICF-rated events. Bilateral competitions with other nations will be organized to enhance chess diplomacy.
* Chess Development Fund: This fund will support initiatives such as trainer training programs, coach certification, outreach efforts, and integrating chess into school curriculums.
* Corporate Partnerships: A management board will be established to collaborate with strategic partners and finance programs and initiatives, aiming for governance excellence and long-term sustainability.
