The Northeast Team Chess Championship 2024 commenced at Janata Bhawan in Gangtok, marking a significant event for the region’s sports community. Sikkim’s Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, Raju Basnet, inaugurated the championship as the chief guest, accompanied by prominent figures, including Sikkim Olympic Association President Kuber Bhandari and Sikkim Chess Association General Secretary Mahendra Dhakal.
In his opening address, Basnet praised the championship for uniting chess players from across the Northeastern states, calling it a step towards promoting sports and strengthening regional ties. He also emphasized the state government’s efforts in supporting sports development.
The tournament, a first for Sikkim, has drawn seven teams from the Northeast, with the host state fielding two teams. The competition is being held in a Round Robin League format and will conclude on October 23.