All India Chess Federation Wants To Collaborate with Content Creators

In the wake of a historic month for Indian chess, the All India Chess Federation (AICF) has unveiled ambitious plans aimed at further popularizing the sport across the nation. With a substantial budget of Rs 65 crore earmarked for these initiatives, the federation is keen on leveraging the momentum generated by recent successes.

Last month saw five Indian grandmasters—Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, Vidit Gujrathi, Humpy Koneru, and Vaishali—participating in the prestigious Candidates tournament. Among them, 17-year-old Gukesh clinched victory in the open section, securing a spot in the World Chess Championship.
Gukesh has captured the imagination of the global chess community with his remarkable triumph in the FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament 2024. This makes him the youngest contender in the upcoming World Championship final. 

Building on this remarkable achievement, the AICF is now focusing on fostering a vibrant community of chess content creators. Recognizing the influential role of online platforms, the federation aims to collaborate with YouTubers, influencers, and streamers. Additionally, it plans to provide mentorship opportunities, enabling aspiring creators to learn from established figures in the field.

The initiatives announced by the Indian chess federation encompass a wide range of measures. These include the establishment of a chess development fund, offering robust financial support through player contracts and coaching at various levels, as well as backing district and state associations financially. Furthermore, the federation is set to inaugurate a state-of-the-art National Chess Arena (NCA), dedicated to elite-level training. Additionally, a specialized AICF Rating system tailored for India is in the pipeline.

With these comprehensive plans, the AICF aims to capitalize on the recent achievements in Indian chess and propel the sport to even greater heights. By embracing the digital landscape and nurturing emerging talent, the federation is laying the groundwork for a vibrant and sustainable future for chess in India.