The week-long chess coaching camp that concluded at the state capital on Monday was a first-of-its kind effort in Arunachal Pradesh and will deserve kudos. Enthusiasm that was found amongst the learners has shown that chess is also quite popular in the state and there are many dreamers who aspire to rise to the heights of the likes of Viswanathan Anand, Pravin Thipsay, Gary Kasparov and many others who receive hero worship all over the world. But, as correctly observed during the last day of the camp, Arunachal has not made a solid presence at the national circuit as of now primarily due to the fact that there is a lack of structured training facilities here, which has now become almost indispensable for making it big in chess. With that done gradually, talents of the state will then get opportunities to blossom to the fullest and a culture of chess that is waiting on the fences will also start developing. There is an adage which is often recalled particularly while dealing with the social factors. It goes like this- ‘Sports keep a lot a young people from a lot of bad things’ and it’s so much true for chess also. No need for any special and costly instrument, just a board, a little cosy place and two enthusiasts- all these makes chess a star among all indoor games.

As per the history of origin of the game goes, it’s an acknowledged fact that its ties are deep with India. Over the centuries, with each period giving unique names of the sorts of chaturanga, shatranj etc, chess has not only survived but also flourished and has always been a part of the Indian culture. In the current sporting landscape of the country, it has captured a prominent place and since the emergence of the venerable Viswanathan Anand, India’s first Grandmaster and the other greats of Dibyendu Barua, Surya Sekhar Ganguly to name a few, chess has become a much sought after game. Success and popularity of the game has skyrocketed during the last three decades and in each year there are sure additions to the already long list of GMs produced by India. And it needs no reiteration that they enjoy stardom as well as great financial rewards and are thus idols for the youngsters to emulate.

It’s true that not everyone will become a GM. But science has proved that chess can ultimately be a great tool in sharpening memory, concentration, logical thinking and analytical ability, all required in great quantities in the current cut-throat world of competitive examinations.

With such all-round benefits galore, chess in Arunachal must receive wide patronage from all quarters including government as well as corporate.