“Union Sports Minister Celebrates India’s Triumph in Women’s Chess World Cup: A Celebration of Bharat’s Sporting Excellence”

On August 1, Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, celebrated the achievements of Indian chess champions Divya Deshmukh and Koneru Humpy. Both players performed brilliantly in the recent FIDE Women’s World Cup in Batumi, Georgia.

Divya made headlines as she became the first Indian woman to win the FIDE Women’s World Cup and the youngest player to achieve this milestone. She is also the 88th Grandmaster of India and the fourth Indian woman to earn this title. Humpy joined the recognition ceremony virtually to celebrate her remarkable journey in chess.

Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the importance of their achievements. He said, “Grandmasters like you inspire the younger generation. Chess is one of India’s gifts to the world, and I believe that many young women will rise in the sport because of you.” He reminisced about watching Humpy’s games with his children, showing the lasting impact she has had on fans and aspiring players alike.

The FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 marked a historic moment as it was the first all-Indian final, showcasing the growing talent in women’s chess from India. Divya faced off against Humpy after an intense tournament, winning during a tiebreak despite their two drawn games.

After her victory, Divya expressed her joy, stating, “I’m thrilled that the title is coming to India. Humpy played excellently, but I feel lucky to have won. It makes me happy to know that whichever of us won, the title would be in India.” This sentiment underscores a unity and pride in their shared success.

{“The continuous support from the Sports Authority of India and the Sports Ministry plays a crucial role in the growth of chess in the country,” Divya added. This reflects a positive shift in how sports are viewed and supported in India.

Humpy, a Grandmaster since she was 15, reflected on the tournament’s challenges. “It was long and exhausting, but I’m proud that we showcased India’s strength in chess,” she said. Her journey is not just an inspiration for players; it’s a testament to the country’s evolving sports landscape.

Looking ahead, India will host the FIDE Men’s World Cup in Goa this October, signaling a bright future for the nation’s chess community. Dr. Mandaviya reassured that the government is committed to enhancing sports infrastructure. Upcoming initiatives, including the National Sports Governance Bill, promise structured support for athletes and aim to strengthen the sports environment in India.

With the spotlight on women’s achievements, the chess scene in India is poised for further growth and recognition, making it an exciting time for both fans and participants alike.

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chess, FIDE Women