Assam Chess Premier League begins, Verma applauds Franchise-Based Chess League in Guwahati

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: The All Assam Chess Association has earned praise from the All India Chess Federation (AICF) for launching the Assam Chess Premier League, a franchise-based chess tournament aimed at promoting the game in the region. The competition got under way in the city on Saturday

Speaking to The Sentinel at the side line of the opening ceremony, held at a city hotel, AICF Head of Operations A.K. Verma lauded the initiative, describing it as a significant step for the development of chess in Assam and the North East.

 “It’s a commendable effort, and I’m genuinely pleased to see Assam hosting such a tournament. It offers local players the invaluable opportunity to compete with some of the country’s top talents, which will certainly boost their skills and confidence,” said Verma,

The two-day event features 56 players across eight teams, including five Grandmasters and 6 International Masters which included Sahil Dey, Assam’s first International Master and the highest-bid player in the tournament. The tournament promises to be a high-level showcase of strategy and talent where the winning team will receive cash award of Rs 3 lakh. The cash award for runners up team is Rs 2 lakh

Verma also highlighted the growing popularity of chess in the region, noting that the North East has been actively organizing quality tournaments. “The enthusiasm of chess organizers here is noteworthy. Most importantly, the support from the State Government has been a key factor in promoting the sport,” he said.

He acknowledged the emergence of strong talent in Assam and the broader region. When asked about two of the State’s brightest prospects, Mayank Chakraborty and Shahil Dey, Verma was optimistic: “Both are very talented and performing well. They are close to earning their Grandmaster norms, and I believe they will achieve that milestone soon.”

On the AICF’s role in supporting North East players, Verma reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment: “We are always working to promote young chess talent across the country. I hope this tournament will inspire local organizers to introduce more innovative initiatives. If any support is needed from our end, we are more than willing to provide it.”

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