Amaravati Emerges on Global Chess Map as VIT-AP Hosts International FIDE-Rating Chess Tournament
· Free Press Journal
VIT-AP University, in association with the Andhra Chess Association (ACA), inaugurated the first-ever VIT-AP Amaravati International Chess Tournament 2026, one of the largest international chess tournaments organized in Andhra Pradesh. The prestigious event was inaugurated by Andhra Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Harish Kumar Gupta as Chief Guest. Ake Ravi Krishna, Inspector General of Police Eagle Cell attended the program, as Guest of Honour, and Vakul Jindal, Superintendent of Police, Guntur District, Nagesh –SP Eagle cell Guntur, Dr. A. Suresh, President, KVV Sharma- Chairman, K. Jagadish Secretary of Andhra Chess Association, Andhra Pradesh were also present on the occasion
The tournament comprises two major FIDE-rated international tournaments: the VIT-AP Amaravati International Open Chess Tournament 2026 (June 1–5) and the VIT-AP Amaravati International Below-18 unrated players Chess Tournament 2026 (June 6–8), carrying a combined prize fund of ₹30 lakh.
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The event has already attracted registrations from players representing multiple countries, including the United States, and is expected to witness further international participation.
Speaking on the occasion, Harish Kumar Gupta, DGP, Andhra Pradesh, said: "Chess is a game that develops strategic thinking, discipline, patience, and decision-making abilities—qualities that are essential for leadership and nation-building. I commend VIT-AP University and the Andhra Chess Association for creating an international platform that nurtures young talent and promotes intellectual excellence. Such initiatives contribute significantly to the holistic development of our youth and strengthen Andhra Pradesh's reputation as a hub for sporting and educational excellence."
Ake Ravi Krishna, Inspector General of Police, remarked: “The scale and inclusiveness of this festival are truly remarkable. By bringing together players from different regions and countries, the event promotes not only competitive excellence but also cultural exchange and mutual learning. I am particularly impressed by the efforts made to support young players and their families, ensuring that talent receives opportunities irrespective of economic background."
Welcoming the participants, Prof. P. Arulmozhivarman, Vice-Chancellor, VIT-AP University, said: "At VIT-AP University, we believe education extends beyond classrooms and laboratories. Through initiatives such as the Amaravati International Chess Festival, we aim to nurture critical thinking, innovation, leadership, and sporting excellence among young people. We are delighted to partner with the Andhra Chess Association in creating an international platform that supports emerging talent while simultaneously showcasing Amaravati as a destination for academic, cultural, and sporting excellence."
The VIT-AP Amaravati International Chess Festival 2026 represents a landmark initiative in sports development, combining talent promotion, social inclusion, educational excellence, and international outreach while strengthening the image of Amaravati and Andhra Pradesh as emerging centers of excellence.
Addressing the gathering, Vakul Jindal, Superintendent of Police, Guntur District, stated: "Sports and intellectual pursuits such as chess play a vital role in shaping responsible, focused, and resilient citizens. The VIT-AP Amaravati International Chess Festival provides a valuable platform for young minds to challenge themselves, learn from experienced players, and aspire to higher achievements. Such events inspire the next generation to pursue excellence with determination and integrity."
Dr. A. Suresh, President, Andhra Chess Association, said: "The Amaravati International Chess Tournament marks a significant milestone in the growth of chess in Andhra Pradesh. By providing players with access to high-quality international competition, we are creating opportunities for young talent to improve their ratings, gain valuable experience, and progress towards national and international success."
K.V.V. Sarma, Chairman, Andhra Chess Association, said: "This tournament reflects our commitment to making chess accessible to talented players across all sections of society. The partnership with VIT-AP University has enabled us to organize a world-class event that combines sporting excellence with inclusivity, benefiting hundreds of players and their families."
Nagesh –SP Eagle cell Guntur made all the participants to take pledge for drugs free India and Andhra Pradesh. Dr. Jagadish Chandra –Registrar –VIT-AP University delivered the vote of thanks, Dr. Khadeer Pasha –Deputy Director Student welfare, Dr. N. Ramachandra Rao- Director-Physical Education were also present on the occasion
Tournament Details
The 1st VIT-AP International FIDE Rated Chess Tournament is being conducted at VIT-AP University, Amaravati, from 1st to 5th June 2026.
A total of 417 players from 15 Indian states—Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal—along with players from the United States of America, are competing in the prestigious event.
The tournament is being played in a 9-round Swiss League format with a time control of 90 minutes plus 30 seconds increment from move one. The championship will conclude on 5th June 2026.
Among the participants are 325 internationally rated players, including 97 female players, making it one of the strongest and most diverse chess events conducted in the region.
The top seed of the tournament is Sai Baswanth P. (Andhra Pradesh) with an Elo rating of 2344, followed by B. Vignesh, Tamil Nadu State Champion, and S. Haridev, Tamil Nadu Under-17 Champion. Other prominent participants include International Master Rahul Sangma of Railways and the talented Andhra Pradesh youngster Kolla Bhaavan, who is seeded fourth.
All 417 participants are vying for the prestigious title of Champion of the 1st Amaravati International FIDE Rated Chess Tournament, making the event a landmark occasion in the growth of chess and sports tourism in Andhra Pradesh.