Leon Luke Mendonca

For the first time in the history of Indian Chess, quarterly stipends ranging from ₹60,000 to ₹1,50,000, totalling ₹42,30,000 for the first quarter of 2025, have been disbursed to 42 top players across the U-7 to U-19 categories (both open and girls), based on their performance in last year’s nationals. This is part of a total outlay of ₹6,15,60,000 under this scheme. These stipends will support players’ coaching and travel needs, enabling them to compete globally and pursue higher goals with confidence. Taking inspiration from Aadarniya PM Shri @narendramodi ji’s call to empower athletes at the grassroots, the All India Chess Federation has moved from vision to delivery. This marks the implementation of a key component of the national chess development blueprint I presented as President of AICF designed to nurture talent and create robust support systems. Together, we are building the foundation for a new era of Indian chess. @narendramodi @fide @aicfchess @IndiaSports @Media_SAI @PMOIndia @mansukhmandviya

Heartfelt congratulations to Team MGD1 on being crowned the World Rapid Team Champions! A special shoutout to GM @leonkingof64 from Saligao, Goa, your brilliance, dedication, and strategic prowess have made our state proud! As a key player in this monumental victory, your achievement is an inspiration to every young mind dreaming big. Goa celebrates your success, Leon! Keep making bold moves and shining on the world stage.

Team MGD1 conquer the FIDE Rapid World Championship! 🏆 A formidable squad showing true global flair and Indian leadership! GM @ArjunErigaisi, GM @HariChess, GM @Danton55, GM @GM_Pranav_V, GM @leonkingof64, IM Stavroula Tsolakidou, Atharvaa Tayade and Captain of the team GM @srinathchess Kudos to owners @8reekar & @reccah8 for building this world-beating @mgd1_esports team! India is dominating the world of 64 squares 🇮🇳 @narendramodi @mansukhmandviya @IndiaSports @FIDE_chess @aicfchess

They started as 6th seeded, but now are champions 🏆🏆🏆 @ArjunErigaisi , @HariChess , @Danton55 , @leonkingof64, V Pranav, Stavroula Tsolakidou, @srinathchess, P Tayade Atharvaa, Hariharan Raghavan @mgd1_esports 💥 chessdom.com/mgd1-is-fide-w…