THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, JANUARY 15, 2026

The two-day Chess Mahakumbh, formally titled the International Conference on Social and Educational Chess, concluded at KIIT University on Wednesday, leaving behind a powerful message on the transformative role of chess in education, character-building and social development. The high-profile conclave brought together global chess leaders, educators and policymakers to deliberate on how the ancient game can shape sharper minds and stronger societies.

The conference was inaugurated on Tuesday by legendary Indian grandmaster Viswanathan Anand, setting an inspiring tone for discussions that blended sporting excellence with academic and social perspectives. On the concluding day, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich addressed delegates, emphasising discipline and consistent practice as the cornerstones of success in chess. Encouraging young players to dedicate at least four hours a day to the game, he highlighted how chess nurtures responsibility, decision-making skills and accountability. Stressing inclusivity, Dvorkovich said chess must reach wider sections of society so its benefits extend beyond competitive circles.

During his visit, Dvorkovich also toured the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) campus, where he interacted warmly with students and took part in friendly rugby and football matches. He later visited various KIIT and KISS campuses, engaging with faculty members and students and appreciating the institutions’ commitment to holistic education.

Adding a personal dimension to the discourse, FIDE Deputy Chair and former Latvian Finance Minister Dana Reizniece shared her journey with chess, which she began at the age of eight. Practising nearly six days a week in her formative years, she credited the game for instilling discipline, strategic thinking and mental resilience that later shaped her professional and personal success.

Jerry Nash, Chair of FIDE’s Educational Chess Commission, described chess as a powerful life skill that helps students navigate complex decisions. Visiting Bhubaneswar for the second time, he said the conference reflected a shared global vision to meaningfully integrate chess into education systems and community life.

Founder of KIIT and KISS, Dr Achyuta Samanta, underlined the intellectual and social value of chess, stating that the game sharpens mental abilities and fosters knowledge-driven intelligence. Acknowledging the Odisha Chess Association’s support, he reaffirmed KIIT’s commitment to using chess as a tool for education, inclusion and social upliftment.

KIIT Vice-Chancellor Prof. Saranjit Singh revealed that the university is working towards designing a unique diploma programme in chess aligned with the National Education Policy 2020. He highlighted KIIT’s holistic educational approach, noting that chess could be seamlessly integrated with engineering, technology and management studies to enhance analytical thinking, problem-solving skills and innovation. Prof. Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty, Registrar of KIIT Deemed to be University, proposed the vote of thanks, marking the conclusion of a landmark sporting and educational gathering.