Sri Vijaya Puram: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands witnessed a historic moment in its sports calendar as the inaugural FIDE Rapid Rating Open Chess Tournament – titled ‘Andaman-Nicobar Chess Mahasangram 2025’, began under floodlights at the Netaji Stadium on April 19.
Organized jointly by the Directorate of Education, Department of Sports & Youth Affairs, and the Andaman Nicobar Chess Association, the two-day tournament has drawn more than 600 participants across various age groups, making it the largest chess event in the territory’s history.
The Chief Secretary, Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, declared the tournament open by making the ceremonial first move. Accompanied by Secretary (Education) L. Kumar and Director (Education) Vikram Singh, the Chief Secretary visited the players’ area and applauded the scale and organization of the event.
The tournament is not only a major sporting event but also a step toward promoting chess as a mainstream discipline in the islands. Conducted in an open-air setting and played under floodlights, the unique ambiance added to the enthusiasm of players and spectators alike.
Parents, coaches, and chess enthusiasts turned up in large numbers to witness the matches, lending a festive and competitive spirit to the event. The tournament will conclude on April 20 with the announcement of winners and distribution of prizes.
