FIDE Deputy Chair Meets Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik to Discuss Chess Promotion in State

Bhubaneswar: Dana Reizniece Ozola, a Woman Grand Master and Deputy Chair of the FIDE (International Chess Federation) Management Board met with Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik to discuss the promotion of chess in the state.

Glad to meet Ms. Dana Reizniece Ozola, Deputy Chairperson of @FIDE_chess Management Board. Had a fruitful discussion to promote chess across the state and thanked her for the appreciation for #Odisha’s initiatives in nurturing young chess talent. #OdishaForSports pic.twitter.com/yQXYlzQcjx

— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) October 25, 2023

Ozola, a former Minister of Finance & Economics in the Republic of Latvia, praised Odisha’s initiatives in nurturing young chess talents. Both Patnaik and Ozola stressed the importance of popularizing chess as a mind sport, recognizing its potential to empower the youth intellectually and emotionally.

Chief Minister Patnaik stated, “We are committed to providing the best opportunities for our youth, and chess is a powerful avenue for their growth. We have established the state-level chess academy, ‘Pro-Chess-Ta,’ and the ‘Chess in Schools’ project. Plans are in motion to set up at least 100 chess training centres across Odisha. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with FIDE to achieve our goals.”

Ozola, known for her steadfast support of the global chess community, expressed her appreciation for Odisha’s unwavering efforts in promoting sports among its youth.