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India Creates Chess History With 100th Grandmaster, PM Modi Congratulates Anuj

chirag pic By - Tuesday, Nov 10, 2026
Updated on Nov 10, 2026 02:18 PM

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India has created history in the world of chess by achieving a major milestone. The country has now produced its 100th Grandmaster, with young Indian chess player Anuj Srivatri achieving this remarkable feat. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Anuj on his success and praised the growing popularity of chess among Indian youngsters.

This achievement marks another proud moment for Indian chess and highlights the country's growing presence on the international stage.

PM Modi Congratulates Anuj Srivatri as India Hits a Century in Chess

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his happiness over India's historic achievement through a social media post. He congratulated Anuj Srivatri on becoming India's 100th chess Grandmaster and described the accomplishment as extraordinary.

PM Modi wrote, "India has scored a century in chess! Extraordinary, isn't it? India now has 100 chess Grandmasters! Congratulations to Anuj Srivatri on becoming India's 100th chess Grandmaster! What a fantastic achievement."

He further highlighted the exceptional talent, dedication and hard work of Indian chess players. The Prime Minister also appreciated the increasing popularity of chess among youngsters and the emergence of talented players from different parts of the country.

PM Modi expressed hope that this achievement would inspire more young Indians to take up chess and achieve excellence in the sport.

Who Is Anuj Srivatri? How He Became India's 100th Chess Grandmaster

Anuj Srivatri made history after winning the 7th ASEAN+ Individual Open Chess Championship in the Philippines.

The 22-year-old Indian chess player achieved the Grandmaster milestone on November 8. His victory added another significant name to India's growing list of Grandmasters and strengthened the country's position in international chess.

His achievement is particularly important for young chess enthusiasts who dream of representing India at the global level.

From Viswanathan Anand to Anuj Srivatri: India's Journey to 100 Grandmasters

India's journey towards this historic milestone began with legendary chess player Viswanathan Anand. He became India's first Grandmaster in 1988.

Since then, Indian chess has witnessed tremendous growth, with several talented players making their mark in international tournaments. The increasing number of Grandmasters reflects the country's growing chess culture and the rising interest among young players.

Reaching the 100-Grandmaster milestone is a major achievement for Indian chess and a testament to the dedication of players, coaches and chess organisations.

Chess Grandmaster Title: What Is It and How Does a Player Earn It?

The Grandmaster (GM) title is awarded by the International Chess Federation (FIDE). It is considered one of the highest individual honours in professional chess.

To become a Grandmaster, a chess player generally needs to achieve a FIDE rating of at least 2500, earn three Grandmaster norms in qualifying tournaments and meet the tournament and performance conditions prescribed by FIDE.

Once awarded, the Grandmaster title is generally held for a lifetime.

India's 100th Chess Grandmaster: A Proud Moment for the Nation

Anuj Srivatri's achievement is not just an individual success but also a proud moment for Indian sports. India's growing list of Grandmasters shows how the country is developing into a major force in international chess.

With this historic milestone, Indian chess has reached another important chapter. PM Narendra Modi's congratulatory message has further highlighted the importance of the achievement and its potential to inspire the next generation of chess players.

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