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The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has filed a police complaint after the Gaprindashvili Trophy, a rolling trophy awarded to the team with the best overall performance in the Chess Olympiad, went missing from its office. The incident has forced the AICF to arrange for a replica of the prized possession and tender an apology.The trophy went missing over a month ago, after the International Chess Federation (FIDE) requested its return for the ongoing 45th edition of the Olympiad in Budapest. Despite extensive searches, the AICF has been unable to locate the trophy.AICF vice-president Anil Kumar Raizada expressed embarrassment over the situation, stating that the trophy had been missing for over 30 days. He confirmed that an official police complaint had been filed and an investigation would follow.A senior AICF official revealed that a contingency plan was in place and a replacement trophy had been ordered. The official acknowledged the embarrassing nature of the situation and apologized for the inconvenience caused.The current edition of the Olympiad, which began on September 10 and concludes on September 23, features 197 teams representing 195 national federations. India is fielding strong teams in both the open and women's categories, with the open team consisting of Arjun Erigaisi, Gukesh D, Praggnanandhaa R, Vidit Santosh Gujrathi, and Harikrishna Pentala. The women's team includes Harika Dronavalli, Vaishali Rameshbabu, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agrawal, and Tania Sachdev.The AICF's failure to safeguard the Gaprindashvili Trophy has raised concerns about the organization's handling of valuable assets. The incident has also cast a shadow over the ongoing Olympiad, where India is a strong contender for the gold medal.

The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has faced a legal notice demanding Rs. 1 crore in compensation from Karun Duggal, a chess player whose career was cut short by the federation's decision to ban him during his peak.Duggal, a two-time Delhi State Rapid Chess champion, had an Elo rating of 1,979 points when it was revoked by AICF in 2010. The ban stemmed from Duggal's participation in a chess tournament sponsored by the Chess Association of India (CAI), which was not authorized by AICF.Duggal and three other players filed a complaint to the Competition Commission of India (CCI) against AICF, alleging contravention of the Competition Act. The CCI ruled in favor of the players, imposing a penalty of Rs. 6.92 lakh on AICF for anti-competitive conduct.The CCI found that AICF's restrictions on chess players to participate in unauthorized events and the attendant punitive consequences restricted the movement of chess players and placed them and potential organizers of chess tournaments in a disproportionate disadvantage.Duggal's legal notice seeks compensation for the financial and professional damages incurred due to AICF's actions. He claims that the ban cut short his chess career and resulted in the loss of sponsorships, endorsements, and professional growth opportunities.Duggal's case has gained momentum after the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) dismissed AICF's petition for restoration of appeal. This dismissal has given Duggal's case added weight.Gurpreet Pal Singh, another player who was banned by AICF, is also considering legal action. Singh, who was the National Junior Champion in 1994, had an Elo rating of 2,306 points when his rating was revoked.The AICF's actions have had a significant impact on the careers of several chess players. Duggal and Singh's legal challenges aim to hold AICF accountable for its anti-competitive practices and to seek compensation for the damages caused to their careers.

Indian chess is experiencing a surge of excitement and optimism. With a 17-year-old Grandmaster poised to challenge for the world championship and a new leadership team at the All India Chess Federation (AICF), the future looks bright.AICF President Nitin Narang has unveiled an ambitious ₹65 crore action plan, outlining measures to support players, enhance infrastructure, and promote the game at the grassroots level. The plan includes cash rewards for top players, contracts for age-group players, and the establishment of 20 online academies to provide coaching to promising young talents.Narang emphasizes the importance of sustainability and transparency in the federation's operations. He has secured funding commitments from several partners and plans to increase revenue through initiatives such as a national rating system and a unified registration process.The AICF is also exploring the possibility of hosting the Gukesh vs Ding Liren World Chess Championship in India later this year. Narang acknowledges the challenges involved but remains optimistic about securing the bid.To address the need for qualified coaches, the AICF will implement a "Train the Trainers" program. The federation also plans to incentivize chess content creators to promote the game and inspire aspiring players.Narang recognizes the importance of supporting women in chess and has introduced several initiatives, including increased representation in arbitration and expanded events under the "Smart Girl" program.The AICF's focus on grassroots development includes the establishment of district-level academies and a robust policy framework to ensure the proper training and support of young players.Narang emphasizes the need for an active and responsive federation that listens to stakeholders and addresses their concerns. He encourages feedback and ideas to enhance the action plan and build a sustainable and thriving chess ecosystem in India.

The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has unveiled an ambitious ₹65 crore budget and blueprint to revolutionize chess in India. This comprehensive plan aims to provide financial and institutional support to players at all levels, from grassroots to the elite, and to popularize the game across the nation.The initiative comes on the heels of India's historic success in the Candidates Tournament, where 17-year-old D Gukesh became the first-ever teen winner and qualified for the World Championship. The tournament also witnessed an unprecedented Indian representation, with five players competing in both the Open and Women sections.The AICF's plan addresses key challenges, including integrating chess into school curricula, introducing chess e-learning, identifying and nurturing talent, strengthening grassroots academies, and ensuring the sustainability of the federation.Key Initiatives:* National Player Contracts: AICF will introduce two-year contracts for national-level players from U-7 to U-19 age groups, providing financial support ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000. These players will promote chess through grassroots initiatives like 'Meet the Champions' in educational institutions.* Cash Rewards for Top Players: Cash rewards will be allocated to the top 10 male and female Indian players based on their Fide rankings. The top five players will receive ₹25 lakhs, while those ranked between 6th and 10th will be rewarded ₹12.50 lakhs.* Supporting State Associations: AICF will provide financial assistance to state associations over three years, with funds allocated for prize money, chess development activities, and establishing offices. Quarterly seminars will be conducted for capacity building.* Women In Chess: The Smart Girl Program will be expanded with a minimum of 50 annual events, each supported by a ₹100,000 grant. Additionally, a 33% reservation for women will be implemented in key areas like coach and arbiter certification, participation in AICF-recognized events, and the Campus Ambassador Program.* Incentivising Chess Content Creators: AICF will collaborate with Youtubers, influencers, and streamers to foster a thriving community of chess content creators. Mentorship from established creators will be provided to nurture new talent.* National Chess Awards and Development Conference: Exceptional coaches and players will be honored, and industry leaders and universities will come together to advance chess through strategic workshops and discussions.* Corporate Chess League: Corporates will be allowed to host AICF-rated tournaments by becoming members. A minimum prize money will be set for AICF-rated events. Bilateral competitions with other nations will be organized to enhance chess diplomacy.* Chess Development Fund: This fund will support initiatives such as trainer training programs, coach certification, outreach efforts, and integrating chess into school curriculums.* Corporate Partnerships: A management board will be established to collaborate with strategic partners and finance programs and initiatives, aiming for governance excellence and long-term sustainability.

The All India Chess Federation (AICF) is determined to elevate the Indian chess landscape by hosting more international tournaments and launching a series of initiatives to nurture talent and expand the sport's reach.AICF President Nitin Narang announced plans to introduce an "AICF Super Tournament," a unique platform that will provide Indian players with world-class competition and exposure. The tournament will feature a quota for Indian players, allowing them to compete alongside international stars.Recognizing the need for increased opportunities, the AICF will also host a maximum number of AICF-rated tournaments, providing a competitive environment for players to hone their skills. The federation has allocated a record budget of Rs. 65 crore to support these initiatives.To ensure equal opportunities, the AICF has pledged to eliminate gender disparities in prize money. Both male and female players will receive equal compensation in all tournaments and contracts.The federation's focus extends beyond elite players. It aims to strengthen the sport's foundation by establishing district associations in every district, promoting chess in schools, and implementing an AICF rating system. This system will allow amateur players to get rated and participate in more tournaments, fostering a thriving chess ecosystem.To address the lack of standardized academies, the AICF plans to launch 20 online academies and seek corporate support to establish 700 standardized academies across the country. These academies will provide training and support to young players, nurturing their talent and creating a pipeline of future champions.The AICF's comprehensive approach aims to transform the Indian chess landscape, providing opportunities for players of all levels, promoting the sport at the grassroots, and ensuring that India remains a global chess powerhouse.