The Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh launched its state chess league in Tirupati, featuring 360 qualified young players from across the state. The event, which began with wellness activities, underscores efforts to promote sports and mental health among youth. Inaugurated by former Union minister Panabaka Lakshmi and other officials, the tournament spans four age categories and will conclude with a medal ceremony.
On Saturday, February 22, 2026, Tirupati hosted the launch of the SAAP Community Wellness Initiative and the SAAP State Chess League at the Sri Srinivasa Sports Complex. The programme started with Yoga Andhra wellness activities, emphasizing physical and mental health, and drew enthusiastic participation.
The chess league includes 360 state-qualified players selected from district-level trials involving 2,445 participants across all 26 districts of Andhra Pradesh. The tournament is divided into four age categories: under-13, under-15, under-17, and under-19. It is being live-streamed on YouTube and will conclude on Sunday with a medal ceremony honouring the winners.
Former Union minister Panabaka Lakshmi inaugurated the event alongside SAAP Chairman A. Ravi Naidu, Vice-Chairperson S. Bharani, A.P. Handicrafts Development Corporation Chairman Pasupuleti Hari Prasad, Tirupati Municipal Commissioner N. Mourya, and Indian hockey player Rajani Etimarpu.
Addressing the gathering, Panabaka Lakshmi stated, “Such sporting initiatives build discipline, resilience and leadership among young minds. Chess strengthens not only strategic thinking, but also character of the players.” Pasupuleti Hari Prasad added, “The scale and seriousness of this league reflect the transformative role of structured sports in shaping confident and capable youth.”
SAAP Chairman A. Ravi Naidu remarked that the wide participation reflects the growing strength of the state’s sports ecosystem and stands as a testament to the state’s commitment to nurturing youth under the Chief Minister’s leadership. Vice-Chairperson S. Bharani noted, “The depth of district participation demonstrates that our sports culture is expanding meaningfully. SAAP remains committed to building credible platforms that identify, nurture and elevate talent across age groups.”
Officials highlighted the league's role in developing young minds through discipline, strategy, and sporting excellence, promoting transparent and inclusive opportunities for talent identification.