Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday saluted India’s growing dominance on the global chessboard, congratulating Grandmasters Koneru Humpy and Arjun Erigaisi for winning bronze medals at the FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship in Doha.
PM Modi lauded their achievements as a reflection of India’s rising intellectual capital and competitive spirit in international sports.
The Prime Minister praised Arjun Erigaisi for scripting history in the open section by securing a bronze medal with an impressive 9.5 points, finishing just one point behind reigning world champion Magnus Carlsen.
PM Modi highlighted that Arjun Erigaisi has now joined an elite league, becoming only the second Indian male player after chess legend Viswanathan Anand to claim a podium finish at the prestigious World Rapid Championship.
Talking to X, PM Modi described Arjun Erigaisi’s performance as a display of grit, focus, and resilience under pressure.
The Prime Minister noted that such achievements inspire India’s youth and reinforce the country’s reputation as a global chess powerhouse.
PM Modi extended his best wishes to Arjun Erigaisi for future tournaments and greater milestones ahead.
Proud of Arjun Erigaisi for winning the Bronze medal in the open section at the FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship in Doha. His grit is noteworthy. Wishing him the very best for his future endeavours.@ArjunErigaisi
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 29, 2025
Prime Minister Modi also congratulated Koneru Humpy for her bronze medal finish in the women’s section, underscoring her consistency and longevity at the highest level of international chess.
PM Modi recalled that Koneru Humpy is a proven champion who has previously won gold at the World Rapid Championship in 2019 and 2024, cementing her legacy as one of India’s finest chess players.
Talking to X, PM Modi also described Koneru Humpy’s dedication.
In his message, PM Modi commended Koneru Humpy’s dedication to the game and her ability to compete fiercely against the world’s best.
PM Modi emphasised that her performance in Doha once again showcased India’s strength in women’s chess on the global stage.
Congratulations to Koneru Humpy, who finished strongly at the 2025 FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship in Doha, securing the Bronze medal in the women’s section. Her dedication towards the game is commendable. Best wishes for the endeavours ahead.@humpy_koneru
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 29, 2025
High-Pressure Finish in Women’s Championship
The women’s event witnessed intense competition, with Koneru Humpy, China’s Zhu Jiner, and Russia’s Aleksandra Goryachkina tied at the top heading into the final round.
PM Modi acknowledged the narrow margins that define elite sport, as Koneru Humpy narrowly missed advancing to the playoff despite finishing with 8.5 points from 11 rounds.
The Prime Minister observed that such high-pressure tournaments highlight the mental endurance required to excel at the world level.
Prime Minister Modi reiterated that the government remains committed to encouraging sporting excellence and nurturing talent across disciplines, including mind sports like chess.
By celebrating the achievements of Koneru Humpy and Arjun Erigaisi, PM Modi once again reinforced India’s growing stature in global competitions.
Prime Minister Modi’s messages resonated widely, reflecting national pride and confidence in India’s sporting future as its players continue to challenge the world’s best.
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