Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated 19-year-old Divya Deshmukh for becoming the FIDE Women’s World Chess Champion 2025, calling her victory a remarkable feat that will inspire countless youngsters across the country.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister also lauded veteran Indian grandmaster Koneru Humpy, who finished as runner-up in the all-Indian final held in Baku.
“A historic final featuring two outstanding Indian chess players! Proud of the young Divya Deshmukh on becoming FIDE Women’s World Chess Champion 2025. Congratulations to her for this remarkable feat, which will inspire several youngsters,” PM Modi said in his post.
He added, “Koneru Humpy has also displayed immense prowess throughout the championship. Best wishes to both players for their future endeavours.”
This win crowns a sensational rise for the Nagpur teenager, who just last year clinched the World Junior Championship title. Divya also played a pivotal role in India’s gold-medal run at the 2024 Chess Olympiad in Budapest, where she secured individual gold on her board.