AICF Secretary Dev Patel to Promote Chess at Grassroots Level and Make It a Viable Career Option

Chennai, March 15 (IANS) Newly elected Secretary of All India Chess Federation (AICF), Dev A. Patel, outlined plans to include chess in National Games, Khelo India, promote the game at schools, and establish it as a career option. Patel emphasized the importance of expanding the game’s reach at the grassroots level.

Patel dismissed notions of the Patel dynasty in Indian chess management and highlighted the need to increase the number of AICF registered players out of India’s population of 140 crore. He stressed the potential for chess to offer career opportunities, such as player, coach, and arbiter roles, with a strong grassroots presence.

With a background in computer science and management economics in the US, Patel returned to India to lead his family’s software company. His father, Ajay H. Patel, holds positions in FIDE Zone 3.7, further illustrating the family’s involvement in chess administration at various levels.

Despite previous controversies surrounding AICF leadership elections, including the cancellation of Ajay Patel’s presidency in 2021, Dev Patel aims to bring unity and focus on chess development. He addressed concerns about legal expenses, emphasizing the new regime’s vision for transparency and unity within the management committee.

As the new Secretary of AICF, Dev Patel looks forward to discussing the Indian Chess League and expanding the game’s presence through grassroots tournaments. He believes in the power of community engagement to promote chess without the need for celebrity ambassadors, redirecting efforts towards player development and game promotion.