The AICF Chess for Everyone FIDE Rating Open Chess Tournament 2026 concluded at the Ngwalwa Village Council Hall, Peren after five days of intense competition from February 10 to 14.
Organised by the Inter-School Chess Association – Ngwalwa Circle (ISCA-NC) under the aegis of the Nagaland Chess Association and the All India Chess Federation (AICF), the event brought together 40 participants, providing a vibrant platform for both seasoned and emerging chess players.
The tournament was conducted under the supervision of chief arbiter, Vekukho Soho (FA), assisted by deputy arbiter Mengise Haikam (SNA) and other ISCA-NC officials, ensuring smooth and fair play throughout. In the open category, Vesho Doulo emerged as the champion with an impressive score of 9 points. Ilung Haikam secured the 1st runner-up position with 7½ points, while Icicang Haikam finished as 2nd runner-up with 7 points. Other notable performers included Akangzang Haikam, Doson Isipeung, Kediteilungbe and Kekuyisile Ilunglung.
Age category winners
Under-11 Boys: Tezeve Doulo (Champion), Ilungding Ilunglung (2nd), Reku Haikam (3rd)
Under-15 Boys: Iheibe (Champion), Keyiharangbe Doson (2nd), Emran Haque (3rd)
Under-15 Girls: Kelungheigumle (Champion), Keyiziuna Nsa (2nd), Rulevelu Swuro (3rd)
Under-19 Boys: Mamnun Alom (Champion), Injamul Haque (2nd), Timothy Nsa (3rd)
Under-19 Girls: Vekutolu Swuro (Champion), Lungliaheile Hau (2nd), Kiebamsile (3rd)
ISCA players category
Maciding Doson secured 1st position, followed by Namyilungbe Hau (2nd) and Haicigwangbe (3rd).
The organisers expressed gratitude to the AICF and Nagaland Chess Association for their support and acknowledged the cooperation of players, parents, officials and supporters in making the event a grand success. The tournament not only crowned deserving champions but also reinforced the growing chess culture in Peren district, highlighting chess as a powerful tool for discipline, critical thinking and intellectual development among young learners.