In an exciting and unprecedented move, the Indian Economic Trade Organization (IETO) has teamed up with the Chess Academy of Armenia, Mr. Smbat Lputian, an International Grandmaster, Vice-president of the Armenian Chess Federation, and the Founder and President. Following the remarkable success of Indian chess prodigy Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, who became an international master at the age of 10 has become an inspiration to many children not only in India but across the world. With successful research around chess and how positively it impacts children’s mental development, Dr Asif Iqbal, President of IETO seeks to introduce chess as a compulsory subject in around 1,000 schools across India as a pilot project.

Mr Smbat Lputian, a highly respected figure in the international chess community, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this ambitious project. As the founder and president of the Chess Academy of Armenia, he has witnessed the transformative power of chess in the lives of young students. Mr. Lputian envisions a future where chess is not merely a game but an integral part of the education system, nurturing young minds and fostering essential life skills.

Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa’s astounding achievement as an Indian chess grandmaster at the tender age of 10 served as a catalyst for this initiative. His journey from a young chess prodigy to a globally recognized talent underscores the immense potential that chess education holds for Indian youth. It highlights the fact that when given the right opportunities and guidance, young minds can achieve extraordinary feats.

As per Dr Asif, “The primary goal of the India-Armenia Chess Academy project is to make chess a compulsory subject in Indian schools. This initiative recognizes that chess is not just a game but a powerful educational tool that can instil important life skills, enhance cognitive abilities, and promote personal development”. By incorporating chess into the curriculum, students will have the opportunity to learn valuable lessons in strategic thinking, problem-solving, and sportsmanship from an early age.

Chess education offers a wide array of benefits that extend far beyond the chessboard:

1. Cognitive Development: Chess requires critical thinking, planning, and concentration, all of which contribute to enhanced cognitive abilities.
2. Academic Performance: Numerous studies worldwide have shown a positive correlation between chess instruction and improved academic performance, particularly in mathematics and language skills.
3. Life Skills: Chess teaches important life skills such as patience, resilience, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
4. Character Building: Chess promotes values like sportsmanship, respect for opponents, and the ability to handle both victory and defeat gracefully.
5. Reducing Violence: The non-violent nature of chess encourages peaceful conflict resolution and can contribute to a more harmonious school environment.

The establishment of the India-Armenia Chess Academy represents a significant step towards achieving the vision of Smbat Lputian and the IETO. Under Mr. Lputian’s guidance and patronage, the academy will serve as a hub for chess education and development in India. It will provide training, resources, and support to schools and educators to effectively integrate chess into their curriculum.

The collaboration between the Indian Economic Trade Organization and the Chess Academy of Armenia marks a remarkable and visionary effort to revolutionize education in India. By making chess a compulsory subject and establishing the India-Armenia Chess Academy, this initiative aims to empower the next generation of Indian students with the skills and values needed to excel not only in chess but in life as well. With the support of Mr. Lputian’s expertise, this project has the potential to shape a brighter future for countless young minds in India, fostering a culture of excellence, intelligence, and sportsmanship.