Mind Moves Forward
CHIKKABALLAPURA
The district-level Chess Festival for rural children was inaugurated at Gandhi Bhavan by Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Dr. Y. Naveen Bhat, who highlighted how chess improves thinking power, memory, focus and analytical ability. He said clever indoor games like chess and carrom help children develop both mentally and emotionally, and serve as a healthier alternative to excessive mobile use.
Dr. Bhat reminded children that sports should go beyond kho-kho, kabaddi and volleyball, encouraging them to explore indoor games that strengthen the mind. He urged students to make use of libraries in gram panchayats and build regular reading habits. The festival, launched on November 14 to mark Children’s Day, was introduced as a unique initiative of Chikkaballapura district to help children learn about the benefits of computers and internet-based thinking through skill games.
A total of 5,504 rural children enthusiastically participated. Winners progressed from village to taluk and then to district level, with about ₹21 lakh spent on prizes and certificates. Dr. Bhat said the district aims to send top performers to state and national competitions, and plans are underway to include more smart games in future editions. He stressed the need for expert training and a supportive environment to help interested students grow.
Zilla Panchayat Assistant Secretary Muniraju said children aged 6 to 14 took part, and prizes were given at each stage: ₹3,000, ₹2,000 and ₹1,000 at village level; ₹5,000, ₹3,000 and ₹2,000 at taluk level; and ₹10,000, ₹7,500 and ₹5,000 at district level, along with books and certificates.
Officials from the Zilla Panchayat, Education Department, Sports Department, parents and students attended the event, making the festival a memorable celebration of talent and learning.
