The CBSE Central Zone–Delhi Region Under-18 Boys Chess Tournament was inaugurated with great enthusiasm at Delhi Public School R.K. Puram on 19 August 2025. The Principal, Mr. Anil Kumar, was accorded a standing ovation and a warm welcome by students, teachers, coaches, and chess enthusiasts.
The ceremony began with the lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries, symbolising wisdom, enlightenment, and the spirit of sportsmanship. This was followed by the felicitation of the Chief Guest by the Vice Principal, Mr. Naresh Kumar Miglani. A soulful performance by the school choir was mesmerising.
In his address, the Principal, Mr. Anil Kumar, motivated students to cultivate courage, resilience, and perseverance, both on and beyond the chessboard. The players’ oath of sportsmanship was administered with participants pledging to uphold fairness, integrity, and the values of the game. The highlight of the ceremony was when the Principal officially declared the tournament open, marked by the release of colourful balloons that symbolised aspirations and determination. The event set the perfect stage for an exciting contest of strategy, brilliance, and spirited competition.
The Closing Ceremony was held on 21 August 2025 with equal fervour. The Principal, Mr. Anil Kumar, was warmly welcomed, and the programme began on a poetic note, celebrating chess as a battle of intellect and imagination. A melodious performance by the school choir enhanced the ambience. The compères extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests, including CBSE Observer, Shri R.S. Tewari, and Arbiters, Mr. Sandeep Chitkara and Mr. Amit Sharma, whose presence ensured fairness and credibility.
In his address, the Principal highlighted the parallel between chess and life, emphasising foresight, discipline, and sportsmanship. This was followed by the Prize Distribution Ceremony, where winners and participants were honoured for their dedication, focus, and exemplary performance. The awards were presented by the Principal along with the dignitaries, celebrating both achievement and true sportsmanship.
The tournament concluded with the official declaration of closure by the Principal. The Vote of Thanks, delivered by Vice Principal, Mr. Anil Kumar Kathuria, expressed gratitude to CBSE, the arbiters, the organising team, and the participants for making the championship a success. The ceremony ended with the National Anthem, filling the atmosphere with pride and unity.