The world's youngest chess champion D Gukesh was felicitated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Tuesday. In a programme organised by the state government, the CM handed over a cheque of Rs 5 crore to the world chess champion and presented him with a shawl. During this, he also announced the establishment of a chess academy to encourage and prepare young talents in the state.

Chess academy to be set up

CM Stalin said, 31 out of 85 chess grandmasters in India are from Tamil Nadu. This honour is not only for Gukesh but for all achievers. A chess academy will be set up to encourage talents and prepare achievers.

Stalin further said, I applaud our Gukesh for becoming the world chess champion at the young age of 18. Our Chennai boy has set a record and the whole world is appreciating him. During this, the Chief Minister asked Gukesh's parents to come on the stage and handed over the cheque in their presence.

We should make lakhs of Gukesh'

At the event, Stalin said that Gukesh had become a grandmaster at the age of 12 and became the world chess champion at the age of 18. He said, so consider him as your inspiration and achieve success. We should make lakhs of Gukesh.

Stalin said that like the game of chess, one should be ready to make sacrifices to achieve big victories in life too. The Chief Minister said, chess is a mind game. Sometimes we have to sacrifice the queen to win. So to win in life, we should be ready to make sacrifices. But if you play carefully, the pawns can become as powerful as the queen. So what is required to win in life is patience and determination.

'We are very happy'

Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin said that just as Gukesh's parents are overwhelmed with happiness over his achievement, the Chief Minister and the state government are also very happy. He said, Tamil Nadu is celebrating his achievement today. Gukesh is a source of pride for the whole of India and Tamil Nadu. His achievement confirmed that chess means Chennai. This is a great achievement.

'Fulfilled my dream by winning the title'

Gukesh said his journey would not have been possible without the constant support of the Tamil Nadu government. He said, I have fulfilled my dream by winning the World Chess Championship title at a young age. This makes me happy. I express my gratitude to the Chief Minister and Udaya Anna (elder brother) who extended all kinds of support including financial and encouragement. Vishi Sir (Anand) was also the inspiration and role model in this journey.

Gukesh arrived at the venue with a car procession holding the trophy in his hands. He was welcomed by students standing on both sides of the road holding national flags. He showed his winning trophy to the Chief Minister and later presented him a chess board.