Odisha celebrates International Chess Day with the inauguration of its first-ever chess academy, named ‘PRO-CHESS-TA,’ in the capital city of Bhubaneswar. The academy aims to provide a conducive environment for budding chess players to learn, grow, and excel in the sport. The initiative is a collaborative effort involving the state’s Sports & Youth Services Department, All India Chess Federation, and Odisha Chess Association. The academy will be under the guidance of Fide trainer and International Master, Satyapragyan, who will mentor the trainees and help nurture their talent to reach higher levels in chess. As part of the celebration, Padmini Rout, an exceptional chess player, was felicitated with a cash award of Rs 60,000. Padmini’s outstanding dedication and talent have earned her the prestigious titles of International Master (IM) and Woman Grandmaster, making her an inspiration for aspiring chess players throughout the country. The establishment of the chess academy is seen as a significant step forward for the development of chess in Odisha, providing much-needed support and guidance to passionate chess enthusiasts in the region.