AICF Player Stipend Scheme:- The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has declared the Top National Players Stipend Scheme (TNPSS) to assist young chess players all over India. This scheme has launched on 25 June, 2025, to give financial assistance to the talented players from ages Under-7 to Under-19. Talented players will receive a stipend every three months, between ₹60,000 and ₹1.5 lakh. The aim is to find talented players at a young age and help them grow into champions, making the country’s chess community stronger.
About AICF Player Stipend Scheme
On June 25, 2025, Players Stipend Scheme has introduced by All India Chess Federation (AICF). INR 42.30 Lakh has been transferred to the bank account of 78 young players for the first quarter. For the first time ever, Government is directly supporting 39 girls and 39 boys by giving them steady financial assistance to grow their talent and succeed.
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Objective of Player Stipend Scheme
One of main goals is to make national tournaments more important, because they are the key to building a strong chess community. These events help find and support talented players.
To help young chess players grow, it’s important to give them financial support early in their careers. This support can encourage more young people to join the sport, especially those who do well in national tournaments. By removing money-related obstacles, government make it easier for them to get proper training and take part in competitions. Giving steady financial help during their early years can also improve their performance in international events.
Key Points of AICF Player Stipend Scheme
| Name of the Scheme | AICF Player Stipend Scheme |
| Launched by | All India Chess Federation (AICF) |
| Date | On June 25, 2025 |
| Beneficiaries | U-7 to U-19 age group chess players |
| Financial Assistance | ₹60,000 to ₹1.5 lakh |
| Total Players who will get benefit | 78 (39 boys & 39 girls) |
| Total Disbursed for April–June Quarter | ₹42.30 lakh |
| Official website | https://aicf.in/ |
Features
Launch & Purpose
- Launched by the All India Chess Federation (AICF).
- Aimed at nurturing young chess talent across India.
- Provides direct financial support to help reduce economic pressure on families.
Target Group
- Under the age group of 7 to 19 top-performing young players.
- A total of 78 players are beneficiaries: 39 boys and 39 girls.
Financial Assistance
- Financial assistance is directly transferred into players’ bank accounts.
- For the first quarter (April–June), AICF distributed a total amount ₹42.30 lakh.
- Individual stipend amounts range from ₹60,000 to ₹1.5 lakh, depending on age and performance.
Vision and Strategy
- Part of a long-term plan to support non-elite players.
- Designed to raise the standard and profile of national tournaments, which serve as key talent identification grounds.
- Reinforces the national tournament pathway to higher levels of competitive chess.
Leadership Comments
- AICF President Nitin Narang, who launched the scheme, emphasized that it reflects a deep belief in the potential of young Indian chess players.
- Narang stressed that “nationals are the backbone” of India’s chess ecosystem and need to be strengthened through consistent support.
Context and Timing
- Comes at a time when Indian chess is gaining global prominence, with several young stars excelling in international arenas.
India Young Professionals Scheme
Eligibility Criteria
- All participants have to be registered with the AICF via the online PRS system.
- A one-time annual fee of ₹250 is necessary, and Date of Birth certificate is supposed to be submitted.
- Players also need to register with their respective State Chess Federation, which involves a small annual fee (usually under ₹300).
- A total of 42 top-ranked players, chosen based on how well they performed in national tournaments last year, are the first to get benefit from this scheme.