Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi has expressed strong disapproval of the government’s recent decision to discontinue cash rewards for achieving Grandmaster (GM) and International Master (IM) titles. Previously, players received ₹4 lakh for attaining a GM title and ₹1.5 lakh for an IM or International Women Master (WIM) title. The sports ministry has now eliminated these incentives, offering prize money only for winning world-level competitions.
Impact on Young Players and Their Families
Erigaisi, 21, from Warangal, Telangana, believes this move could deter young talent. He stated, “It’s not something that would demotivate a lot of young children as they don’t care about the money aspect. But it is maybe [demotivating] for the parents.” He emphasized that financial incentives play a crucial role for families making decisions between supporting their children’s chess pursuits and prioritizing academics. “If there is some motivation like this, then there are more chances that they would encourage their children if they have to make a call between chess and studies. It’s not something ideal,” Erigaisi added.
Arjun Erigaisi: A Stellar Rise in the Chess World
Erigaisi earned the Grandmaster title in 2018 at just 14 years, 11 months, and 13 days old, becoming the first GM from Telangana. In September 2024, he became India’s top-rated player, and by December 2024, he achieved a peak FIDE rating of 2801, making him the second Indian after Viswanathan Anand to cross the 2800 threshold.
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Challenges and Future Aspirations
Despite a remarkable 2024, where he became the second Indian after Viswanathan Anand to achieve a 2800 ELO rating and won the men’s Olympiad gold, Erigaisi faced challenges at the start of 2025. He finished 10th in the Tata Steel Chess tournament, attributing his performance to taking excessive risks. “I was taking too many risks, and I should be careful. I will tone it down, but it doesn’t mean that I won’t take risks rather I’ll take them less rashly because some of my risks were way too rash which just got punished,” he reflected.
Looking ahead, Erigaisi is eager to participate in the Norway Chess tournament, aiming to compete against top players like Magnus Carlsen, Fabiano Caruana, and Hikaru Nakamura. He last faced Carlsen in a classical game in 2023 and is keen for a rematch.
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