Amaravati emerges on global chess map as VIT-AP hosts international FIDE-rated chess tournament

Amaravati has taken a significant step toward establishing itself as an international sporting destination with the inauguration of the 1st VIT-AP Amaravati International Chess Tournament 2026, one of the largest international chess events ever organized in Andhra Pradesh.

The tournament, being hosted by VIT-AP University in association with the Andhra Chess Association (ACA), was formally inaugurated on Monday by Andhra Pradesh Director General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta. Inspector General of Police Ake Ravi Krishna attended as the Guest of Honour.

Several dignitaries, including Guntur Superintendent of Police Vakul Jindal, ACA President Dr A Suresh, ACA Chairman KVV Sarma, and ACA Secretary K Jagadish, were also present.

The chess festival comprises two major FIDE-rated events: the VIT-AP Amaravati International Open Chess Tournament 2026, scheduled from June 1 to June 5, and the VIT-AP Amaravati International Below-18 Unrated Players Chess Tournament 2026, to be held from June 6 to June 8.

Together, the tournaments offer a prize pool of `30 lakh. The event has attracted participants from across India and abroad, including players from the United States, highlighting its growing international appeal.

Addressing the gathering, DGP Harish Kumar Gupta emphasized the role of chess in developing strategic thinking and leadership qualities.

“Chess is a game that develops strategic thinking, discipline, patience and decision-making abilities-qualities that are essential for leadership and nation-building. Such initiatives contribute significantly to the holistic development of our youth and strengthen Andhra Pradesh’s reputation as a hub for sporting and educational excellence,” he said.

Inspector General Ake Ravi Krishna praised the scale and inclusiveness of the tournament, noting that it promotes not only competitive excellence but also cultural exchange and learning among participants from different regions and countries.

Welcoming players and guests, VIT-AP Vice-Chancellor Professor P Arulmozhivarman said the university remains committed to nurturing critical thinking, innovation, leadership and sporting excellence through initiatives beyond academics.

“Through events such as the Amaravati International Chess Festival, we aim to create opportunities for young talent while showcasing Amaravati as a destination for academic, cultural and sporting excellence,” he said.

Guntur Superintendent of Police Vakul Jindal highlighted the importance of sports and intellectual pursuits in shaping responsible and resilient citizens. He said the tournament offers young players an opportunity to challenge themselves, learn from experienced competitors and aspire to greater achievements.

ACA President Dr A Suresh described the tournament as a milestone for chess development in Andhra Pradesh.

“By providing players access to high-quality international competition, we are creating opportunities for young talent to improve their ratings, gain valuable experience and progress toward national and international success,” he said.

ACA Chairman K.V.V. Sarma noted that the event reflects the association’s commitment to making chess accessible to talented players from all sections of society.

As part of the inauguration ceremony, Guntur Eagle Cell SP Nagesh administered a pledge to participants supporting a drug-free India and Andhra Pradesh. VIT-AP Registrar Dr. Jagadish Chandra delivered the vote of thanks.

Strong Participation from Across India and Abroad

The tournament has drawn an impressive field of 417 players, including competitors from 15 Indian states-Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal-as well as players from the United States.

The championship is being played in a nine-round Swiss League format with a time control of 90 minutes plus a 30-second increment from move one. The event will conclude on June 5.

Among the participants are 325 internationally rated players, including 97 female competitors, making it one of the strongest and most diverse chess tournaments conducted in the region.

The tournament’s top seed is Sai Baswanth P. of Andhra Pradesh with an Elo rating of 2344. He is followed by B. Vignesh, Tamil Nadu State Champion, and S. Haridev, Tamil Nadu Under-17 Champion. Other notable participants include International Master Rahul Sangma of Railways and promising Andhra Pradesh player Kolla Bhaavan, seeded fourth.

With all 417 participants competing for the inaugural championship title, organizers believe the event marks a landmark moment in the growth of chess and sports tourism in Andhra Pradesh, while strengthening Amaravati’s position on the international chess map.