Chennai: Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay engaged in a chess match with Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa at the Secretariat on Monday, subsequently presenting him with a Rs 50 lakh incentive for his historic victory at the Norway Chess 2026 tournament. Praggnanandhaa, who recently became the first Indian to clinch the prestigious Norway Chess title in Oslo, met the chief minister accompanied by his family members.
Interaction at the Secretariat
During the meeting, Vijay made a strategic move on the chessboard as the Grandmaster observed, while officials and family members looked on. The chief minister later handed over a cheque for Rs 50 lakh on behalf of the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) in recognition of Praggnanandhaa’s exceptional achievement. The Grandmaster also displayed the Norway Chess trophy and received congratulations from the chief minister.
State Support for Sportspersons
The state government reiterated its commitment to supporting athletes through financial assistance, incentives, and infrastructure development. Praggnanandhaa is a beneficiary of SDAT’s Elite Scheme, under which he receives annual assistance of Rs 30 lakh. This scheme is part of Tamil Nadu’s broader efforts to nurture sporting talent.
Focus on Chess Development
Highlighting Tamil Nadu’s dedication to chess, the government noted the establishment of the “Home of Chess” academy at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai. This academy provides advanced coaching, performance monitoring, and international-level exposure to young players. Praggnanandhaa’s triumph at Norway Chess is regarded as one of the biggest milestones in Indian chess, with the Chennai-born Grandmaster becoming the first Indian to lift the title.
