In an unexpected decision, the Sports Ministry has discontinued the cash award program for chess players aiming to achieve the titles of Grandmaster, International Master, or International Women Master in the future. Previously, Indian chess players who attained the Grandmaster title received a reward of ₹4 lakh, while those who earned the International Master and International Women Master titles were awarded ₹1.5 lakh. Additionally, this financial incentive was only available to players who achieved these titles before the age of 20.

This decision is particularly perplexing given the recent accolades surrounding D Gukesh's success at the World Championship, for which he was honored with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award.

Furthermore, following Gukesh's triumph, Koneru Humpy secured the World Rapid Championship title, and Vaishali Rameshbabu earned a bronze medal at the Blitz Championship. This raises the question of why the cash prize system for aspiring Grandmasters, International Masters, and International Women Masters has been eliminated.

Dibyendy Barua, Vice-President of the All India Chess Federation, criticized the Sports Ministry's decision, stating that there had been no prior discussions with the federation. In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, he remarked, “We were not informed. The AICF was not consulted. This decision was made without any input from the All India Chess Federation, which is certainly not a positive development. As a player, I must express my disagreement with this.”

He further indicated his intention to address this issue in the next meeting, advocating for the reinstatement of the cash awards. “Instead of enhancing the program, they have completely eliminated it. This is a significant disappointment for the chess community,” he added.

Barua, a Grandmaster and three-time Indian Chess Champion, expressed concern that the removal of the cash prize system could discourage parents of young aspiring players. He emphasized that not all Grandmasters, International Masters, or International Women Masters in India have substantial sponsorship, making it challenging for those who do not belong to the elite group of Indian chess players.

Following the attainment of the aforementioned titles, chess players are often required to travel extensively due to a surge in tournament invitations. Previously, the cash prizes served as a significant incentive not only for chess players but also for participants in general, as they provided essential financial stability, particularly in a country like India, where sums ranging from 1 to 4.5 lakhs are considered substantial.

As reported by the Indian Express, the Sports Ministry has implemented this decision across all sports disciplines to address issues such as age fraud and doping, while also aiming to inspire young athletes. In contrast, Indian Grandmaster Erigaisi has expressed his disapproval of this initiative, stating to PTI that it may serve as a considerable discouragement for the parents of aspiring young chess players.

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