The All India Chess Federation (AICF) launched the Top National Players Stipend Scheme (TNPSS) on June 25, 2025, to provide direct financial support to India’s most promising young chess talents.
In its first phase, the scheme disbursed ₹42.3 lakh as quarterly stipends, ranging from ₹60,000 to ₹1.5 lakh, to 42 top-ranked players in the Under-7 to Under-19 age groups, based on their standout performances at last year’s national championships.
Officials described the initiative as a transformative step to overcome financial barriers and nurture future champions, with the scheme set to continue over two years with a projected outlay of over ₹6.15 crore.
Empowering Young Chess Champions
Under the TNPSS, selected players received their stipends directly into their bank accounts, marking the first time in Indian chess history that young players are being supported through a structured national stipend.
The beneficiaries were chosen from both open and girls’ categories across seven age groups, with three boys and three girls selected from each division. Notable inaugural recipients include Devanarayanan Kalliyath (U7 Open), Aaranya R (U7 Girls), Ilamparthi A R (U15 Open), and Mrittika Mallick (U19 Girls).
All India Chess Federation President Mr. Narang highlighted that, for the first time, the federation is making a direct investment in the futures of 39 girls and 39 boys, offering them sustained financial support to help turn their potential into success. He emphasized that this initiative goes beyond symbolic gestures, serving as a clear demonstration of the federation’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
Background and Broader Vision
The stipend scheme is a response to the growing need for financial support among young chess players, many of whom struggle with the costs of travel, training, and participation in national and international tournaments.
The AICF’s initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of strengthening grassroots sports infrastructure and athlete support, as highlighted by Narang’s reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s policies.
The federation aims to elevate the importance of national tournaments as a feeder system for future champions and to ensure that talent is not lost due to financial hardship. The scheme will continue for two years, with a substantial budgetary outlay, and is expected to expand in scope and reach.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian applauds the AICF’s Top National Players Stipend Scheme as a vital step towards nurturing young talent and promoting inclusivity in sports.
By addressing financial barriers, the initiative empowers aspiring chess players from all backgrounds to pursue their passion and excel on the national and international stage. This move not only supports individual dreams but also strengthens India’s position as a chess powerhouse.
