“India’s Ascent in Chess: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Highlights R Praggnanandhaa’s Stiff Challenge Against Magnus Carlsen in Interim Budget Speech”
In a notable recognition of India’s growing prominence in the world of chess, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman acknowledged chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa during her interim Budget speech in Parliament. The minister praised the young player for his commendable performance in the Chess World Cup final against the reigning world champion, Magnus Carlsen of Norway.
Presenting the interim Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 in the Lok Sabha, Sitharaman highlighted the remarkable growth of chess in India. She emphasized that the country now boasts over 80 chess grandmasters, a significant surge from the slightly over 20 grandmasters recorded in 2010. This surge reflects India’s increasing influence and prowess in the realm of chess on the global stage.
The Finance Minister’s mention of R Praggnanandhaa specifically celebrated his resilience and tenacity displayed during the intense battle against Magnus Carlsen. The acknowledgment not only shines a spotlight on Praggnanandhaa’s individual achievement but also signifies the broader success of Indian chess players in challenging the world’s best.
Furthermore, Sitharaman drew attention to India’s overall sports achievements, pointing out the country’s stellar performances in the Asian Games and Asian Para Games held in 2023. The recognition of India’s success in various sports endeavors highlights the nation’s commitment to scaling new heights on the international sporting stage.
As India continues to make strides in diverse sports, the Finance Minister’s mention of R Praggnanandhaa in the budget speech serves as a testament to the rising influence of the country’s athletes, particularly in the intellectual arena of chess. This recognition not only applauds individual accomplishments but also underscores India’s collective journey toward becoming a powerhouse in global sports.**
