The Inter-District Division-Level Chess Competition (Boys) for Jammu Province 2026–27 concluded here on Thursday, with District Jammu and District Kathua emerging as the top performers in the Under-14, Under-17 and Under-19 categories.
The closing ceremony was held at Yatri Niwas, Chanderkote, under the aegis of the Department of Youth Services & Sports, J&K. Director General, Youth Services & Sports, J&K, Anuradha Gupta, was the chief guest, while Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Alyas Khan was also present.
Around 150 young chess players representing various districts and schools of Jammu Province participated in the championship, showcasing their strategic skills, discipline and sporting spirit.
The competition was conducted in the Under-14, Under-17 and Under-19 categories, providing young players with an opportunity to gain valuable competitive exposure and test their skills against players from across the province.
Addressing the gathering, Anuradha Gupta called upon coaches and technical officials to identify promising chess talent at the grassroots level and nurture it through regular coaching, mentoring and guidance. She stressed the need to effectively pass on the knowledge acquired through recently organised chess training programmes and seminars to young players.
The DG emphasised the importance of adopting a long-term approach to player development, urging coaches to prepare talented youngsters not only for individual competitions but also for divisional, UT and national-level events. Encouraging the participants to “dream big”, she advised them to remain curious, ask questions, continuously learn and seek guidance from their teachers, parents and coaches.
The DG also appreciated the District Administration Ramban for its support and cooperation in hosting the championship. She acknowledged the logistical and geographical challenges of the district and lauded the coordinated efforts of the administration and organising team in ensuring the successful conduct of the event.
During the closing ceremony, the DG and Deputy Commissioner felicitated the winners and runners-up in the various categories. In the Under-14 category, District Jammu secured the first position, while District Kathua finished as runners-up. District Jammu also emerged victorious in the Under-17 category, with Kathua securing the second position. In the Under-19 category, District Kathua claimed the top spot, followed by District Jammu.
Anuradha Gupta congratulated the winners, runners-up, players, coaches and technical officials for their dedication and sporting spirit. She also appreciated the efforts of DYSSO Ramban Nazir Hussain, officers, officials, coaches, technical officials and field staff for the smooth conduct of the championship.
The event provided an important platform for spotting emerging chess talent among school-going children while promoting strategic thinking, discipline and competitive spirit, with an aim to prepare young players for higher-level competitions.
