Jammu, December 30: Vivek Chess Academy, Mast Garh, Jammu, successfully organised the Welcome Year 2026 Chess Tournament, a month-long intra-academy competition aimed at promoting competitive chess and nurturing young talent.
The tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from academy players and concluded with exciting semifinal and final matches held on December 30, 2025. A total prize money of ₹3,000, along with trophies and certificates, was awarded to the winners in various categories.
In the Open Category, Surinder Gupta emerged as the champion, defeating Amrita Gupta in a closely contested final. Surinder was awarded ₹1,000 along with a trophy and certificate, while Amrita secured the second position and received ₹500 and a trophy. Parth finished third after defeating Avni in the third-place match and was awarded ₹500 with a trophy.
In the Women’s Category, Nitika Nishad claimed the title by defeating Gunjan in the final. She was adjudged the Best Woman Player and received ₹500, a trophy, and a certificate.
The Under-10 Category witnessed impressive performances from young players. Prajanya Mahajan won the U-10 title after defeating Prince in the final. Prajanya was awarded ₹500, a trophy, and a certificate, while Prince finished as runner-up. Earlier in the semifinals, Prajanya had defeated Raesha, while Prince overcame Devansh.
The prize distribution ceremony was graced by Poonam Gupta, a senior citizen of Mohalla Mast Garh, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion. She felicitated the winners and appreciated Vivek Chess Academy for encouraging chess among children and youth.
The organisers expressed satisfaction over the successful conduct of the tournament and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting chess as a tool for intellectual growth and discipline among young players.