Cash reward announced for Chess Olympiad winners: Here’s how much the Indian team will earn

The All India Chess Federation (AICF) announced cash rewards to the tune of Rs 3.2 crore for the Chess Olympiad-winning Indian teams , AICF president Nitin Narang said in a felicitation ceremony on Wednesday.

Each member of the India men’s and women’s team will receive Rs. 25 lakh, while the coaches, Abhijeet Kunte and Srinath Narayanan, will be rewarded with Rs. 15 lakh each.

Grandmaster Dibyendu Barua, head of the Indian delegation, will receive Rs. 10 lakh, and the assistant coaches will be rewarded Rs. 7.5 lakh.

“The hunger for gold ended in Hungary, but the desire for success continues. In the open section we dominated and in women’s section we owned it,” AICF president Narang said during the felicitation.

“Our players are sharp shooters on the chessboard. The seeds planted by Vishwanathan Anand have grown into a forest.” AICF secretary general Dev A Patel said the historic twin gold medals will help in bringing a chess revolution in the country.

“In 97 years of Chess Olympiad, we won gold in both categories. It’s a historic achievement,” Patel said.

“This will give a new spark to chess enthusiasts. We will look to use this momentum to encourage next generation of chess players.”

India created history at the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest as both the men’s and women’s teams won gold medals.

The men’s team, featuring D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, and R Praggnanandhaa, displayed dominance throughout, defeating Slovenia in the final round.

Gukesh, the star performer, won 10 of 11 rounds, propelling India to the top with 21 out of a possible 22 points.

The women’s team, led by D Harika, Tania Sachdev, and R Vaishali, secured their gold by defeating Azerbaijan in a tense final.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the gold medallists on Wednesday and praised their dedication and impact on Indian sports.