Goa CM Pramod Sawant keen on taking chess to all schools in the state after FIDE World Cup 2025 success
Panaji, Nov 27
Impressed with the overall conduct of the FIDE World Cup 2025 and the interest it has generated among school children, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant asserted that they now plan to take the sport to every school in the state, which is fast becoming a dynamic sports hub.
Sawant was speaking at the closing ceremony of the FIDE World Cup 2025 which was held at a five-star resort in North Goa under the aegis of FIDE and All India Chess Federation and was supported by the Goa government.
The ceremony was also attended by former world champion and two-time world cup winner Viswanathan Anand, after whom the trophy is now named, AICF President Nitin Narang; FIDE Secretary General and Technical Delegate Lukasz Turlej; Director, Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs Dr. Ajay R Gaude; Secretary, Sports & Youth Affairs Santosh Sukhadeve, IAS and other dignitaries.
A total of 206 players from 82 countries participated in the prestigious tournament with Uzbekistan GM Javokhir Sindarov becoming the youngest World Cup winner beating China’s GM Wei Yi in the final via tiebreak. GM Andrey Esipenko took the third Candidate Spot on offer from the World Cup.
Addressing the gathering at the closing ceremony, Sawant said, “When I took charge of the office, Goa was primarily known as a tourist destination. But I firmly believe that Goa can be much more. That is why the Goa government has now invested heavily in sports infrastructure; bringing top international events to the state along with implementing youth development programs.
“Hosting events like the World Table Tennis, National Games and now the FIDE World Cup are part of our visions to make Goa the sporting capital of India. This World Cup has created a legacy that will live for decades,†he added.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, AICF president Nitin Narang thanked the Goa government for their support and said, “Standing here in Goa today, the world has witnessed a shift. India is no longer just hosting events, India is setting global benchmarks. From the Chess Olympiads to the booming Grandmasters ecosystem to this electrifying World Cup, India is where the global sporting dreams now land. And this truly is just the beginning.â€
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally some forward-thinking education policy! Chess should be part of every school curriculum. It develops analytical skills better than many traditional subjects.
Great move by CM Sawant. After hosting such a prestigious event, it makes perfect sense to capitalize on the momentum. Hope they provide proper training for teachers too.
While chess is excellent, I hope this doesn't become another half-implemented scheme. They need proper infrastructure, trained coaches, and regular tournaments to make it sustainable.
Goa transforming from just beaches to sports hub is inspiring! Chess in schools will create future champions. Remember how Anand put India on global chess map? More to come! 🇮🇳
Impressive vision! Integrating chess into education system shows real commitment to holistic development. Other states should take note of Goa's progressive approach.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.