Chennai, Nov 19

Former Union Sports Minister and Member of Parliament Anurag Thakur visited the FIDE World Cup 2025 on Tuesday and applauded the All India Chess Federation (AICF) for its strong efforts in advancing chess across the country. His appearance marked a proud moment for Indian chess, especially as the prestigious tournament returned to India after twenty years. Thakur, who has held several major positions in sports administration, including the presidency of the BCCI, made the ceremonial first move in the quarterfinal game between Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi and China’s Wei Yi, symbolising India’s rising presence in global chess.

Speaking to the media, Thakur said that hosting the World Cup again is historic in itself, but the moment becomes even more meaningful because the trophy is now named after Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand. He described the Anand Trophy as one that will hold value not just for the coming years but for centuries. Anand, who won the first two World Cup editions in 2000 and 2002, has been a major figure in Indian chess for over thirty years. While he laid the foundation, India’s new generation of players has taken the sport to even greater heights. The country has celebrated major achievements, including gold medals in both the Open and Women’s Olympiad and Gukesh Dommaraju becoming world champion in 2024—an achievement that mirrors Anand’s legacy.

Thakur praised AICF president Nitin Narang and the federation for their clear vision and continuous work to grow the sport. He highlighted how major international events, financial support for players, and structured development programmes have helped India emerge as a leading chess nation. One of the biggest steps, he said, was the introduction of annual grants for 42 players. According to him, this long-term support system gives young talents the financial freedom to focus on improving their game and competing at the highest level.

He also pointed out that the way AICF works—with planning, coordination and a strong commitment to supporting players—serves as a model for other sports federations. Thakur mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to bidding for the 2036 Olympics, saying that hosting large-scale international events like the World Cup is an important part of building India’s reputation as a capable and confident sporting nation.

Overall, Thakur’s visit highlighted the growing momentum of chess in India. With strong support from the federation, rising talent across the country, and recognition from global bodies, India is steadily moving toward becoming one of the world’s biggest chess hubs.

 FIDE World Cup: Anurag Thakur Praises AICF for Boosting Chess Growth in India

Anurag Thakur visited the FIDE World Cup 2025 and appreciated the All India Chess Federation for helping Indian chess grow faster than ever. He said it was a proud moment for the country to host the World Cup again after twenty years and noted that the trophy now being named after Viswanathan Anand makes it even more special. Thakur also made the ceremonial first move in the quarterfinal match between Arjun Erigaisi and Wei Yi, showing support for India’s rising stars.

Thakur highlighted how India’s young players have achieved major success in recent years, including Olympiad golds and Gukesh becoming world champion in 2024. He praised the AICF for supporting players through international events, financial help and long-term planning. According to him, the federation’s decision to give annual grants to 42 players is one of the biggest steps in improving chess at the grassroots and professional levels. He added that India hosting big global events is the right direction for the country, especially with the aim of bringing the 2036 Olympics to India. His message reflected confidence that India is becoming a major force in world chess.