All India Chess Federation

In the management of Indian Chess, the All India Chess Federation (AICF) plays the central and the most important role. The AICF is the national body for governing Chess in India and most of the other Chess associations in India operate under the umbrella of AICF. The central administrative body of Indian Chess, AICF was established in the year 1951 with its headquarters in Mumbai. It is affiliated to the World Body for Chess, the `Federation Internationale des Echecs` (FIDE). The AICF is working in association with more than 30 affiliated state associations, 16 special units and 23 recognized academies as its constituents, at the moment.

Since its inception, the All India Chess Federation (AICF) has been working for promoting the game of Chess in India. The Federation has played an active role in identifying new talents and ensuring quality competition in the domestic level. The state Chess associations are also working in collaboration with the AICF on achieving the same objective of improving the condition of Chess in India.

The All India Chess Federation (AICF) organises numerous tournaments and events at the national level and also patronises various regional events, organised by the state Chess associations. Besides organising Chess tournaments in the national circuit, the AICF has also played host to a number of major world events in India like, World Junior Championships, the Commonwealth Championships and Asian Team Championships etc.

Apart from managing the Men`s Chess in India, the All India Chess Federation (AICF) is also in charge of managing Women`s Chess in India. The AICF organised the first Women`s Senior National Chess Championship in 1974. The Championship has helped in producing several eminent women Chess players like Vasanthie Khadilkar, Jayshree Khadilkar, Rohini Khadilkar, Bhagyashree Thipsay, Anupama Gokhale, Koneru Humpy, etc. It can be said that, so far in its journey, the All India Chess Federation (AICF) has got remarkable success in promoting and managing the game of Chess in India.