Chess maestros GM Divya Deshmukh and GM Vidit Gujrathi were conferred with the prestigious Arjuna Award at the National Sports Awards 2025, announced by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on Tuesday. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
The honour recognises their outstanding sporting performance over the previous four years, along with qualities of leadership, discipline and sportsmanship, thereby reinforcing the growing stature of Indian chess on the global stage.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Arjuna Award, one of India\u2019s highest sporting honours, recognises outstanding performances in sports and games. This honour has added another remarkable milestone to the Indian Chess Fraternity.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
This recognition is a testimony to Divya and Vidit\u2019s exceptional performance, commitment, dedication and significant contribution to Indian Chess, which have been immensely celebrated by the entire Nation. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
Nitin Narang, president, All India Chess Federation (AICF), said, \u201cI extend my warmest congratulations to Divya and Vidit for this momentous achievement. The Arjuna Award is a proud recognition of Divya and Vidit\u2019s exceptional performances, dedication, and contribution to Indian chess. Their achievements on the global stage have brought immense pride to the nation and further strengthened India\u2019s position as a global force in chess. Their achievement not only celebrates their journey but also stands as a true inspiration to a new generation of players to pursue excellence and carry India\u2019s growing legacy on the global chess stage.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the Hon\u2019ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji for his unwavering support, encouragement and leadership. I firmly believe that this achievement is a testament to his vision, and this will further strengthen India\u2019s sports ecosystem across multiple dimensions,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Nitin Narang, president, All India Chess Federation (AICF), said, \u201cI extend my warmest congratulations to Divya and Vidit for this momentous achievement. The Arjuna Award is a proud recognition of Divya and Vidit\u2019s exceptional performances, dedication, and contribution to Indian chess. Their achievements on the global stage have brought immense pride to the nation and further strengthened India\u2019s position as a global force in chess. Their achievement not only celebrates their journey but also stands as a true inspiration to a new generation of players to pursue excellence and carry India\u2019s growing legacy on the global chess stage.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He further added, \u201cA special acknowledgement to the parents, coaches and support staff, whose unwavering belief and support have been integral to Divya and Vidit\u2019s journeys. I thank the millions of Indian chess fans whose passion and encouragement continue to inspire our players and strengthen the chess movement across the country.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n