Fifteen-year-old Arshiya Das from Tripura became the first Woman International Master (WIM) from India’s Northeast after winning the 42nd Rudar IM Round Robin tournament in Serbia with 6½/9, completing her final norm and earning her first Woman Grandmaster (WGM) norm.
Arshiya Das’s victory at the 42nd Rudar IM Round Robin tournament in Serbia marks a landmark moment in Indian chess history, particularly for the often-overlooked Northeast region. The 15-year-old, hailing from Tripura, not only clinched first place with a score of 6.5 points out of nine rounds but also secured her final Woman International Master (WIM) norm-fulfilling all criteria required to earn the prestigious title.
Chess analysts have noted that Arshiya’s performance also earned her her first Woman Grandmaster (WGM) norm at the same event, further underscoring her rapidly rising profile on the international circuit.
Her live FIDE rating surged past 2300, a key benchmark on the pathway towards even loftier titles such as International Master (IM) and Grandmaster (GM).
State and sporting officials in Tripura have been effusive in their praise. The Chief Minister of Tripura described Arshiya’s achievement as “a beacon of inspiration for young athletes and chess players across the Northeast”, while the state’s Sports Minister stated that “this historic milestone will galvanise support and investment for chess in the region”.
From Local Champion to International Sensation
Arshiya’s journey to this moment has been built on a steady progression through multiple tournaments across the globe. She secured her first WIM norm earlier at the Asian Individual Chess Championship in the United Arab Emirates, where she scored 5/9 and gained 40 Elo rating points including notable wins against titled players.
Her second WIM norm came shortly afterward at another event in Serbia’s 12th GM Mix Tournament, where she scored 4.5/9 and gained 71 points.
This consistent international exposure honed her competitive edge, leading to her triumphant performance at the Rudar event which completed her title requirements.
Along the way, Arshiya has also trained under some of India’s respected chess minds, including GM R.B. Ramesh and WGM Aarthie Ramaswamy at Chess Gurukul in Chennai, as well as other national and regional coaches.
Her father, Purnendu Das, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to her mentors and supporters, including scholarship programmes such as the S.Krishnan Scholarship and the Quantbox Research Scholarship, which helped facilitate her training, equipment and international exposure.
A Broader Story: Breaking Barriers for the Northeast
The Northeast of India has long been recognised for its sporting talent, particularly in gymnastics and archery, but has also struggled with limited infrastructure and exposure in many competitive fields including chess. Arshiya’s success challenges this narrative by demonstrating that global sporting excellence can emerge from every corner of the country.
In Tripura, Arshiya’s achievement has sparked widespread celebrations and pride. The Tripura State Chess Association, led by President Abhijit Maulik, announced plans for a formal felicitation ceremony to honour her. The association’s secretary, Mithu Debnath, said Arshiya’s discipline and dedication showcase “the rewards of persistent hard work and unfaltering spirit”.
Arshiya has also been widely celebrated locally for earlier achievements, such as winning the Under-15 National Championship and performing strongly in other national events. In November 2025, she was felicitated in Agartala after dominating these competitions, reflecting a sustained record of excellence.
Despite the triumphs, her family has spoken candidly about the financial challenges of competing internationally, and has appealed to organisations and patrons to provide timely support as she continues her ascent towards becoming an International Master and, ultimately, a Grandmaster.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Arshiya Das’s achievement is not merely a personal milestone; it is a symbolic victory for inclusive sports representation and equitable access to opportunity. It illustrates how talent from historically under-resourced regions can shine with the right support and exposure.
From the Northeast to national federation halls and international championship boards, Arshiya’s rise sends a compelling message: excellence in sport need not be confined to traditional powerhouses or major metropolitan hubs. Young women in particular, navigating societal expectations and structural hurdles, now have a living example that global success is attainable.
The Logical Indian believes that sporting success should be shared and supported across all geographies and social strata. Arshiya’s journey underscores the importance of access to quality coaching, financial assistance and sustained mentorship-especially for young girls who aspire to excel in intellectually demanding arenas like chess.
