Sri Vijaya Puram Sept 13: The Andaman & Nicobar State Chess Championship 2026, organized by the Andaman Nicobar Chess Association (ANCA), concluded successfully at the CPWD Multipurpose Hall, Ranchi Basti, Sri Vijaya Puram, with around 240 players from across the Islands participating in the three-day championship.
The championship, held from September 11 to 13, was conducted in the Classical format over nine rounds, witnessing intense competition, some excellent games and impressive performances. Players ranging from 4 years to over 70 years participated, highlighting the growing popularity of chess across generations in the Islands. Players who qualified through the North & Middle Andaman District Chess Championship 2026 also took part in the event.
After nine intensely contested rounds, J. S. Virat emerged as the State Champion 2026, scoring an impressive 8.5 points. He remained undefeated throughout the championship with 8 wins and 1 draw. Saw Jinson Samuel, one of the emerging players of the championship, secured second position with 8 points, also remaining undefeated with 7 wins and 2 draws. Aryaman Tewari finished in third position, while Shrestha Vijay D. secured fourth position.
The closing ceremony was graced by Mr. Aditya Sangotra, Director (Education & Sports), as the Chief Guest. He presented the prizes to the winners and felicitated the outstanding performers. Addressing the players and parents, he appreciated their enthusiasm, dedication and participation and encouraged the young players to continue working hard and strive for excellence in chess.
The top four players—J. S. Virat, Saw Jinson Samuel, Aryaman Tewari and Shrestha Vijay D.—will represent the Andaman & Nicobar Islands at the forthcoming National Chess Championship 2026, scheduled to be held in Uttar Pradesh in December.
The remaining players in the Top 10 were Anugrah Nair (5th), B. Lalith (6th), Supratik Mondal (7th), Sachit Bara (8th), Jaivardhan Rao (9th) and P. Tata Rao (10th).
The championship carried a total cash prize of ₹1,00,000, along with 60 trophies. Apart from the top 20 prizes in the Open category, prizes were awarded in various age categories, including Under-07, Under-09, Under-11, Under-13, Under-15 and Under-19. Special awards were also presented to the youngest player, best veteran player and best woman player, ensuring recognition across different sections of the chess community.
