Brilliant Brains of Chess should be put to use for society: Dr Rathaiah

Guntur: “Chess is not just a game in my life; it is a school of life,” said Dronacharya awardee Koneru Ashok. The 62nd National Chess Championship was inaugurated on Sunday at Vignan University, near here under the aegis of Andhra Chess Association (ACA) and All India Chess Federation (AICF) on a grand scale. Addressing the gathering,Koneru Ashok said that the path chess showed him is what enabled him to reach this position. He noted that India has emerged as a global power in chess, producing talents like Viswanathan Anand, Harikrishna, Hampi, Haridasan, Gokesh and Pragyanandaa, who brought immense pride to the nation. He emphasized that countless coaches, teachers, and family members made sacrifices for the success of the players, and it must always be remembered. Vignan chairman Dr Lavu Rathaiah asked the players to get prepared to play with AI as their competitor. “We are close to watching matches between humans and machines (Artificial Intelligence). It is to watch as to how it will take turn,” said Dr Rathaiah. He urged students to strengthen their thinking skills now to face such new challenges. He, however, wanted to know what the grand masters and international masters are doing apart from playing chess.

“It is a moment of pride that India is producing so many grand masters and international masters in chess. It means that they are the best brains in the world. I would like to know what the contribution of their brains is to the society is?” asked Rathaiah. He asked Koneru Ashok to ponder over the issue as the best brains could be put to use to find solutions either in politics, industry, business or charity. He said that the best brains should be utilised to build a best society.He said that the tournament teaches students critical life skills, deep thinking, discipline, patience, strategic planning, and managing screen time. MP and Vignan vice-chairman Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu stated that India has become known as a “factory” producing chess grandmasters. He expressed delight at hosting the 62nd National Chess Championship at Vignan University. He emphasized that vignan institutions consistently strive to nurture students’ talent and sporting spirit. The tournament provides an excellent platform for students to participate actively and gain experience. To succeed in chess, students must possess focus, disciplined thinking, and patience, which are essential qualities for personal development, said Krishna. He noted that India has produced great talents from Viswanathan Anand to Pragyanand, and early participation in such tournaments allows children to gain experience and prepare for higher levels.The event was attended by Laltamuna, joint secretary of the All India Chess Federation, chief Arbiter Ananth Raman; ACA President A. Suresh, chief advisor KVV Sharma.