Bhubaneswar: SAI International Residential School, in collaboration with the All India Chess Federation for the Blind (AICFB), successfully hosted the prestigious 18th National Chess Championship for the Visually Challenged on Wednesday, at the SAI International Residential School campus.
Dr. Silpi Sahoo, the Chief Guest and Chairperson of SAI International Education Group, was among the dignitaries who attended the ceremony.
Soundarya Kumar Pradhan, the Asian Para Games gold champion, gave an energizing speech to begin the event with AICFB dignitaries.
The ceremony commenced with the arrival of the Guest of Honour, B. K. Swain, Secretary of the Dept. of Sports and Youth Services, Govt. of Odisha, along with Sanyasi Behera, the first visually impaired OAS officer, and AICFB officials Kishan Gangolli (Vice President) and Swapnil Shah (Treasurer).
The event began on a melodious note with a captivating performance by the SAIoneers Choir, followed by the traditional lighting of the lamp.
The distinguished guests were then felicitated before delivering insightful addresses that emphasized the importance of diversity and empowerment through chess.
This National Chess Championship for the Visually Impaired will continue till April 6, 2025. The prestigious event brought together 54 skilled chess players (52 men and 2 women) from 15 states and Union Territories across India, who competed in a 9-round individual championship format. The championship provided a highly competitive platform for visually challenged players to showcase their exceptional strategic abilities.
Maharashtra led in participation with 11 players, while Odisha was represented by four talented players—Soundarya Kumar Pradhan, Subhendu Kumar Patra, Prachurya Kumar Pradhan, and Deepak Kumar Bhoi.
The winners of this championship earned the esteemed opportunity to compete in the international rounds in Serbia and Poland, further cementing their place on the global stage.
B.K. Swain remarked, “This initiative for visually impaired players is an honor to Odisha’s commitment to making sports accessible to all. We believe that such efforts will not only encourage participation but also nurture talent, proving that determination knows no boundaries. The government remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote equal opportunities in sports.”
Dr Silpi Sahoo remarked, “This event reaffirms our commitment to fostering an environment where everyone gets the opportunity to excel. To the players—each of you is an inspiration. Your dedication, strategic thinking, and passion for the game redefine the meaning of resilience. Whether you win or lose today, remember that every move you make on the board is a move toward a brighter, more empowered future.”
Adding to the event’s impact, students from PM Shri Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Mundali, PM Shri KV No.3, Mundali, and Godisahi High School also attended, reinforcing the message of inclusion and inspiration through sports.
A vote of thanks from International Master Swayangsu Satyapragyan marked the end of the program.
This championship served as a light of talent and tenacity, showcasing the resilient nature of visually challenged chess players.
SAI International Education Group’s mission remains to promote diversity, innovation, and quality in education and athletics.
