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Maharashtra awards Rs 3 crore to Divya Deshmukh for FIDE World Cup triumph; ‘happy to motivate students,’ she says

CM Devendra Fadnavis congratulated Divya Deshmukh, who hails from Nagpur, for becoming India’s 88th Grandmaster and praised her discipline, especially in an age where distractions are abundant.

Divya Deshmukh, who hails from Nagpur and began her journey in chess with an Under-9 title, has steadily climbed the global ranks. (Express Photo by Dhananjay Khedkar)

Felicitating Divya Deshmukh, 19, for becoming the first Indian woman to win the FIDE Women’s World Cup, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis awarded Rs 3 crore to her and said that while China used to dominate women’s chess, India has managed to break its streak. With her victory, Deshmukh has also become India’s 88th Grandmaster.

Fadnavis was speaking at a felicitation ceremony organised at Kavivarya Suresh Bhatt Auditorium in Nagpur to celebrate Deshmukh’s recent triumph. “This is a moment of pride not just for Nagpur or Maharashtra, but for the entire nation,” he said. “China has traditionally dominated women’s chess, but two Indian women, including our very own Divya and Koneru Humpy, have broken through. As an Indian, as a Maharashtrian, and as a Nagpurkar, I am deeply proud of Divya’s win.”

Deshmukh, who hails from Nagpur and began her journey in chess with an Under-9 title, has steadily climbed the global ranks. Recalling her journey, she said, “Moments like these are rare and precious. I am grateful to the Maharashtra government for all the love and support.”

Sharing her happiness on being able to motivate students, Deshmukh said, “When I was playing, I thought, ‘What an incredible opportunity!’ I couldn’t have reached where I am without the help of the Maharashtra government. I am eternally grateful to Maharashtra for all the love I have received,” adding, “Whatever I say about Nagpur is not enough; Nagpur is special for me. I have many next targets, but I am hoping Nagpur gets its first world champion.” While Deshmukh has been crowned the World Cup winner, the World Championship in chess is a different event.

Maharashtra Govt awards Rs 3 crore to Divya Deshmukh during Nagari Satkar in Nagpur today

Divya Deshmukh being awarded Rs 3 crore by Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis. (Experss photos by Dhananjay Khedkar)

Fadnavis praised Deshmukh’s discipline and unwavering focus, especially in an age where distractions are abundant. “At 19, when most people can’t put their phones down, she stayed focused and showed the kind of professionalism the game demands,” he remarked.

He also acknowledged the contributions of Divya’s parents and coaches, calling them strong pillars behind her success. “She never forgot her coaches, which speaks volumes of her character.”

Fadnavis said the state government had earlier awarded Rs 1 crore to Deshmukh for her efforts. “We are ready to do whatever is necessary to support her,” he remarked, and noted several reforms made in the state’s sports policies, including cash prizes, improved training facilities, and permission for coaches to accompany players abroad. “Athletes can’t compete internationally without proper nutrition, training, and support. We have changed the rules to remove these barriers and support sportspersons from Maharashtra,” he emphasised.

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