India's Chess Growth: A Beacon for Global Unity and Education
Promoting Chess for a Better Society
Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], January 14: Arkady Dvorkovich, the President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), expressed that India's advancement in chess serves as a promising indicator for fostering a better society. Meanwhile, Dana Reizniece, FIDE's Deputy Chairman, underscored the necessity of integrating chess into school curriculums to promote the sport on a global scale.
During the Social and Educational Chess Conference held in Bhubaneswar, Dvorkovich, who previously served as Russia's Deputy Prime Minister, emphasized chess as a unifying sport enjoyed in over 200 nations. He commended India's progress in chess as a significant example of how the game can positively impact societal development.
“Chess connects over 200 countries... India's growth is a strong message about how to contribute to a better society,” Dvorkovich stated to the media.
In an interview, Dana Reizniece highlighted that the global expansion of chess, particularly in developing nations, hinges on its introduction in educational institutions. She pointed out that the conference serves as a platform to present various global chess education initiatives, noting the sport's inclusion in numerous continental and regional competitions, as well as the emerging recognition of chess in the Olympic movement through e-sports.
“To promote chess globally, especially in less developed regions, schools must incorporate it into their programs... The conference in Bhubaneswar aims to showcase diverse initiatives available worldwide... We are part of many continental and regional games... E-sports is another innovative way chess is gaining visibility in the Olympic arena,” she remarked.
On the competitive front, Indian grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi recently achieved back-to-back bronze medals at the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships.
Remarkably, Arjun is now the second Indian male player, following the legendary Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand, to secure a podium finish at the World Rapid Championship.