Yuvan Singh claimed victory in the Republic Day Open Blitz Chess Tournament 2026, held at Flag Point in Sri Vijaya Puram. The event, organized to mark the 77th Republic Day, featured seven rounds of intense competition among participants from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Rohan Singh finished as runner-up, with K. Jaivardhan Rao taking third place.
The Republic Day Open Blitz Chess Tournament 2026 took place on January 25 at Flag Point in Sri Vijaya Puram, as part of celebrations for the 77th Republic Day. Organized by the Directorate of Education in collaboration with the Andaman Nicobar Chess Association (ANCA), the tournament aimed to promote chess among students and youth.
Mr. Vikram Singh, Director of Education and Sports for the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, inaugurated the event by making the first move on the top board. In his address to the participants, he emphasized the role of sports, especially chess, in developing critical thinking, discipline, and sportsmanship.
The competition consisted of seven rounds of fast-paced blitz chess, drawing keen interest from players across the islands. After a series of intense matches, Yuvan Singh emerged as the winner, securing first position. Rohan Singh placed second as runner-up, while K. Jaivardhan Rao claimed third.
The closing ceremony was led by Ms. Geeta Rani Verma, IPS, Inspector General of Police, who served as chief guest. She distributed trophies and medals to the winners and offered congratulations to all participants for their performances. Additionally, the top 20 players were felicitated for their outstanding achievements.
This tournament added a competitive and intellectual element to the Republic Day festivities, underscoring the increasing popularity of chess in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.