Chess Olympiad: PM Modi launches torch relay

New Delhi, June 19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the inaugural torch relay for the 44th Chess Olympiad here today.

Fide president Arkady Dvorkovich handed the torch to the PM, who then passed it to Indian Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand.

The torch will travel to 75 cities in 40 days before reaching host city Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu.

Addressing the gathering at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, the PM said that it was a proud moment for the country to hold the first-ever torch relay.

“We are happy that the first torch relay will start from India. This is also the first time India will host a Chess Olympiad. It is a proud moment that the sport which was born here and has left its mark all over the world is returning to India,” PM Modi said.

“Today we are celebrating the 75th year of Indian Independence. This torch will be taken to 75 cities and I am honoured and happy at FIDE’s decision to give us this opportunity. Importantly, this torch relay will always start from India henceforth. This is a great honour for our country and our history for which I thank the FIDE and its members. To the players who will be appearing in the 44th Chess Olympiad, I would like to say, play well and fair,” he added.

The PM also played a ceremonial move on a chessboard with GM Koneru Humpy. PM Modi further said that the game of chess has a deeper meaning in everyday life.

“The game of chess teaches you to plan long-term. One should never plan for short-term success rather plan long-term and you can win big,” he said.