JAMMU, Oct 4: Jharkhand’s Adhiraj Mitra produced a brilliant performance in the ninth round to outsmart overnight leader Vedant Garg of Chandigarh, resulting in both players jointly leading the championship with 7.5 points each after nine rounds. Seven other players are closely following with seven points each, setting up an exciting finish to the prestigious event.
In the girls’ section, Prishita Gupta of Delhi, Saranya Devi Narahari of Andhra Pradesh, Shivamshika G of Telangana and Kirtika B of Telangana are sharing the lead with 7 points each after nine rounds.
The championship has witnessed an impressive participation of 286 players from 30 States and Union Territories, including 38 players from Jammu and Kashmir. In addition, around 200 officials, arbiters, managers, coaches and accompanying persons are associated with the event, highlighting its national scale and significance.
The tournament carries a total cash prize of Rs. 9 lakh and holds considerable importance for aspiring international chess players, as it serves as a direct selection event for the World, Asian and Commonwealth championships.
The top three finishers will receive major support for their international careers. They will be fully sponsored by the Sports Authority of India for four international tours, including the World Championship, besides receiving sponsorship ranging from Rs. 5 lakh to Rs. 10 lakh from the All India Chess Federation.
The event is being conducted under the overall supervision of Atul Kumar Gupta, Chairman, Planning and Development Commission of the All India Chess Federation, who is also the Director of the tournament.
The team of arbiters is headed by Jismon Mathew of Kerala, with Arbind Singh of Bihar serving as Deputy Chief Arbiter and Ovais of Kerala, along with around 13 other arbiters from different states, ensuring smooth and fair conduct of the championship.
The championship is being played under the Swiss system in accordance with FIDE Laws of Chess, with a total of 11 rounds scheduled.
The event is being organised by the All J&K Chess Association under the aegis of J&K Sports Council on behalf of the All India Chess Federation. With two rounds remaining, the battle for the top positions remains wide open, promising an intense and competitive climax.