SAAP State chess league kicks off with 360 competitors in Tirupati

The Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) Leagues 2026 State-level chess tournament commenced in Tirupati on Saturday. Former Union Minister Panabaka Lakshmi, A.P. Handicrafts Development Corporation Chairman Pasupuleti Hari Prasad, SAAP Chairman A. Ravi Naidu, Vice-Chairperson S. Bharani, and Indian hockey player Rajani Etimarpu inaugurated the tournament.

Of the 2,445 participants who took part in district-level trials across 26 districts, 360 qualified for the State-level tournament. The tournament is being conducted across four age categories — under-19, under-17, under-15 and under-13.

The league will conclude on Sunday with a medal ceremony honouring winners in all categories. Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Panabaka Laxmi said, “Such sporting initiatives build discipline, resilience and leadership among young minds. Chess strengthens not only strategic thinking, but also character of the players.”

“The scale and seriousness of this league reflect the transformative role of structured sports in shaping confident and capable youth,” said Mr. Pasupuleti Hari Prasad. The SAAP Chairman and Vice-Chairperson personally interacted with the players and played friendly games.

“The league stands as a testament to the State’s commitment to nurturing both the mind and the spirit of its youth. It reflects the strength of A.P.’s sporting ecosystem under the dynamic leadership and guidance of the Chief Minister. This initiative represents structured opportunity, transparency and belief in youth potential,” said SAAP Chairman.

SAAP Vice Chairperson said, “The depth of district participation demonstrates that our sports culture is expanding meaningfully. SAAP remains committed to building credible platforms that identify, nurture and elevate talent across age groups. I thank all our stakeholders, parents of the participants, and the district sports authority for their overwhelming support for the event.”