Chess Network aims to distribute 15,000 chess boards across Telangana

Chess Network to distribute 15,000 chessboards in Telangana to promote cognitive development and positive engagement in rural communities.

To promote chess as a tool for cognitive development and positive engagement, Chess Network, a non-profit organisation, has launched an ambitious initiative to distribute 15,000 chessboards across Telangana. The campaign, targeting mainly rural and semi-urban communities, particularly in the erstwhile Warangal district, aspires to make chess an integral part of village life.

On Saturday (December 28, 2024), Chess Network distributed chess sets in two mandals of the Rangareddy district — Madgul and Irwin — in collaboration with Footprints and Pages, a US-based non-profit dedicated to enhancing rural literacy. Over 100 chessboards were distributed to government schools, fostering enthusiasm among students and teachers alike.

“Chess empowers young minds with strategy, creativity and life skills,” said Tarini Nallavolu, president of Footprints and Pages, who participated in the distribution event. “This partnership with Chess Network allows us to combine our mission of providing educational resources with the goal of cultivating strategic thinking and positive recreation.”

Sudhir Kodati, founder of Chess Network, emphasized the transformative power of chess for communities. “Chess fosters problem-solving skills, confidence and resilience. By introducing the game to villages, we aim to create a constructive alternative to social media distractions and address issues like alcohol abuse among youth,” he said.

The campaign is inspired by the success of Marottichal, a village in Kerala that achieved 100% chess literacy and overcame societal challenges like gambling and alcoholism through grassroots efforts. “We envision replicating this success in Telangana, starting with Warangal,“ Mr. Kodati added.

The initiative recently gained momentum following a civic reception in Hanamkonda to honour chess Grand Master Arjun Erigaisi, a native of Warangal. Mr. Erigaisi, who at just 21 became the second Indian to surpass the 2800 ELO rating, is ranked world no. 4 and has brought global recognition to the region. “Arjun’s achievements inspire young talent in Telangana, and our campaign seeks to build on that momentum,“ Mr. Kodati noted.

Raja Ram Bhaswapathri, general secretary of Chess Network, shared the organisation’s vision: “We are calling on volunteers, sponsors and organisations to join us. From teaching chess to donating boards, everyone can play a role in spreading this transformative game.“