Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug 30: The North & Middle Andaman District Chess Championship 2026 concluded successfully on 30.08.2026 at the Multipurpose Hall, Diglipur, with an overwhelming participation of around 80 players, ranging from under 8 years to 75 years, from different parts of the district, including Baratang to Diglipur.
The championship was organised by the North & Middle Andaman District Chess Association in collaboration with the Deputy Education Office, Diglipur Educational Zone, under the aegis of the Andaman Nicobar Chess Association (ANCA).
Dr. Pushpavalli, Deputy Education Officer, Diglipur, was the Chief Guest at the inaugural ceremony and made the ceremonial first move against Mr. P. R. Singram, Pradhan, Gram Panchayat Subashgram, who graced the occasion as Guest of Honour. In her address, Dr. Pushpavalli appreciated the overwhelming participation and congratulated the organisers for promoting chess among people of all age groups. She encouraged the young players to pursue the game with dedication, discipline and confidence, reminding them that every move on the chessboard is an opportunity to learn, think and improve.
After six closely contested rounds, Mr. M. Sanjay Kumar, Deputy Ranger, Diglipur Forest Division, emerged as the North & Middle Andaman District Chess Champion 2026, while Manish Kindo, a student of PM SHRI GSSS Subashgram, secured the runner-up position. Rahul Das finished third, while Kamal Chandra Mistry secured fourth place.
In the Under-11 Girls category, K. Lakhshaya secured the first position, while Ishita finished second. In the Under-19 Girls category, Olina K. V. emerged as the winner, followed by Snigdha Saha in second place. In the Under-11 Boys category, Suprojit Dakua secured first position and V. M. Vijayesh finished second. In the Under-19 Boys category, Prem Das emerged as the winner, while Ayube Xess secured the second position.
Idanth Sasai was adjudged the Youngest Player, while S. Sumida was recognised as the Best Female Player. Haripada Roy, aged 75, was honoured as the Best Veteran Player for his inspiring participation. Tarcius Minj of Baratang, another veteran participant, was also specially recognised for his enthusiastic participation and commendable performance.
At the closing ceremony, Mr. P. R. Singram, Pradhan, Gram Panchayat Subashgram, was the Chief Guest and distributed prizes to the winners and outstanding performers.
The top four players in the Open Category, namely M. Sanjay Kumar, Manish Kindo, Rahul Das and Kamal Chandra Mistry, will represent North & Middle Andaman District as official entries in the forthcoming Andaman & Nicobar State Chess Championship 2026. Their entry fee, travelling expenses and boarding expenses for the State Championship will be borne by the Andaman Nicobar Chess Association, as per the selection provisions. The selected players have been requested to submit their consent letters by September 4, 2026, through WhatsApp at 9434293379
