India Chess Star Slams Ministry's Decision To Stop Cash Rewards For Grandmasters, Says "Demotivating..."

Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi believes the government's recent decision to stop cash rewards for attaining GM and International Master titles is "not ideal" for the parents of chess players as such incentives ease the financial strain on them. Starting this month, the sports ministry has eliminated the reward system for chess players, who were earlier receiving Rs four lakh for achieving a Grandmaster title and Rs 1.5 lakh for attaining an International Master or International Women Master (IWM) title. Prize money will now only be given for winning world-level competitions.

"If it is actually the case that it is stopped now, then it's definitely not something that would demotivate a lot of young children as they don't care about the money aspect," Erigaisi told PTI.

"But it is maybe (demotivating) for the parents. When they have to make some financial calls, then what would happen after becoming a Grandmaster would be a question.

"And 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." After a remarkable 2024, in which he became the second Indian after Vishwanathan Anand to achieve a 2800 ELO rating and won the men's Olympiad gold, the 21-year-old from Warangal has had a less-than-ideal start to 2025. Erigaisi finished 10th in the recently concluded Tata Steel Chess tournament.

"It was a very good year and I'm happy with the way things went, like with everything basically and this year hasn't been a good start but I hope to do better in the coming months." One factor that has contributed to his recent slump is his penchant for taking risks, a style that has also brought him