Under the divine blessings of His Holiness Mahant Baba Ram Singh Ji Maharaj and in the esteemed presence of Param Pujya Sant Baba Jodh Singh Ji Maharaj, the 4th Inter-School Chess Competition was organized at Nirmal Ashram Gyan Daan Academy (NGA), Rishikesh, on 10th October 2026. The prestigious event witnessed enthusiastic participation from 144 players representing 40 schools, showcasing their strategic thinking, concentration, patience, and sportsmanship. The competition was inaugurated by Mrs. Neelam Bijalwan, Chairperson of Muni Ki Reti Municipality, and FIDE Master Ms. Sushirali Patnaik, in the gracious presence of the revered Maharaj Ji. Addressing the participants, Mrs. Neelam Bijalwan highlighted the importance of chess in developing logical reasoning, patience, concentration, and decision-making skills among students.
The tournament featured five age categories: Under-9, Under-13, Under-15, Under-17, and Under-19. Young chess enthusiasts from Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, Roorkee, Vikasnagar, Bijnor, and other regions participated with remarkable enthusiasm and determination.
NGA proudly secured the Overall Champion Trophy, while Doon International Public School secured the second position and DSB International Public School, Rishikesh, finished third.
The closing ceremony was graced by Mrs. Charu Mathur Kothari, Minister of State (Uttarakhand), international player Mr. Mukesh Kumar, Mr. Manpreet Sharma, and social worker Mr. Purushottam Bhatt, who felicitated the winners with trophies and certificates in recognition of their outstanding performances.
The matches were conducted under the supervision of the esteemed arbiters Mr. Brijesh Rai, Mr. Sher Singh Thapa, Mr. Somdutt Sharma, Mr. Hari Singh Prajapati, and Mr. Aniket Prajapati.
The event was attended by Principal Dr. Suneeta Sharma, Sub-Inspector Mr. Naveen Kandwal, Mr. Vipin Sirohi, Mrs. Madhu Chauhan, Mr. Gopal Bhatnagar, Atmaprakash Babaji, Mr. Harmanpreet Singh, Mr. Dinesh Sharma, Mr. Gurjinder Singh, Mr. Kuldeep Singh Rawat, Mr. Sohan Singh Kaintura, Mr. Vinod Bijalwan, Mrs. Sarabjeet Kaur, Mr. Rakesh Ronchela, Mr. Rakesh Nautiyal, Mr. Manjeet Sharma, Mr. Sunil Pandey, Mr. Pradeep Kumar, and other distinguished guests.
The successful organization of this prestigious competition reflects NGA’s continued commitment to nurturing intellectual abilities, encouraging healthy competition, and providing students with opportunities to showcase their talents beyond academics.
Heartiest congratulations to all the winners and participants! NGA extends its sincere gratitude to the revered Maharaj Ji, distinguished guests, participating schools, officials, and the organizing team for making the 4th Inter-School Chess Competition a memorable success.
