The first-ever Torch Relay for the 44th Chess Olympiad, 2022 started at the Heritage, Old DC Bungalow, Kohima on 11th July 2022.

Minister, Planning & Coordination, Land Revenue, and Parliamentary Affairs, Neiba Kronu, who was the guest of honor, said the 44th edition of the Chess Olympiad has been awarded to the All Indian Chess Federation (AICF) by the World Chess Federation (FIDE). FIDE has instituted the Chess Olympiad Torch relay to mark the event being held in India, the land where chess originated in the sixth century AD. Kronu informed that the Olympiad Torch relay will cover 75 icon locations all over India as a part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration, and will increase awareness about the sport. The first world chess championship was held in 1886. The 20th century saw advancement in chess theory and the establishment of the World Chess Federation. Chess engine programs will play an important role in uplifting the game of chess. The Minister added that the game promotes lifelong mental health and offers other benefits.

Vice President, Nagaland Chess Association, P. Khezhie thanked all the participants, the officials, and the school children for taking the initiative. He informed the gathering that the Nagaland Chess Association is organizing a Blitz tournament along with the 44th FIDE Chess Olympiad Torch relay starting on 11th July and there will be cash prizes for under-18 and under-14. The tournament will be jointly organized by the Nagaland Chess Association in collaboration with the Department of Youth Resources & Sports.

(Temjenkaba, IA)