AI Generated Summary
- In a remarkable achievement that’s making waves across the Indian chess community, eight-year-old Tanishka from Bathinda has become the youngest girl from Punjab to receive an international chess rating from FIDE, the global governing body of chess.
- She later participated in the Senior Women’s Championship in Bathinda, scoring an impressive 2 out of 5 points against more experienced players — a performance that solidified her family’s decision to support her chess journey with formal training.
- Tanishka, just eight years and four months old, secured her place on the international rating list after a standout performance at the National Chess Tournament (Under-9 category) held in Gurugram last month.
In a remarkable achievement that’s making waves across the Indian chess community, eight-year-old Tanishka from Bathinda has become the youngest girl from Punjab to receive an international chess rating from FIDE, the global governing body of chess.
Tanishka, just eight years and four months old, secured her place on the international rating list after a standout performance at the National Chess Tournament (Under-9 category) held in Gurugram last month. Her official rating was released earlier this month as part of FIDE’s monthly update cycle.
The International Chess Federation (FIDE), headquartered in Switzerland, updates global chess ratings during the first week of each month based on players’ performance in official tournaments. To earn a FIDE rating, players must compete in a minimum of five games against already-rated opponents and accumulate at least one point. Additionally, their performance must meet the minimum rating threshold of 1,400 as per revised FIDE norms.
Prior to Tanishka’s accomplishment, the record for Punjab’s youngest rated female chess player was held by Tanvir Kaur Khinda, who achieved the feat at just over nine years of age.
A Budding Prodigy’s Journey
Tanishka’s mother, Meenu Garg, revealed that her daughter’s fascination with chess began at the tender age of four. Accompanying her elder brother to his chess lessons with coach Pankaj Shama, Tanishka quickly absorbed the nuances of the game.
“After just a couple of months, the coach noticed her natural aptitude and encouraged us to let her compete,” Meenu recalled.
Her early promise was evident. At age six, Tanishka earned second place in the Punjab State Under-9 Chess Championship. She later participated in the Senior Women’s Championship in Bathinda, scoring an impressive 2 out of 5 points against more experienced players — a performance that solidified her family’s decision to support her chess journey with formal training.
Today, Tanishka trains under the guidance of coaches Sourabh Arora and Deepak Batra. Her school, Silver Oaks School on Dabwali Road, Bathinda, has also played a pivotal role in encouraging her passion for chess.
Recognition and Inspiration
Ankush Kathuria, President of the Punjab State Chess Association, confirmed Tanishka’s record-setting achievement in a congratulatory message on social media.
“We are immensely proud to announce that Tanishka has achieved her FIDE rating, becoming the youngest rated female chess player from Punjab,” he stated. “Her story is one of discipline, perseverance, and the unwavering support of her family.”
He added, “Tanishka’s journey is a shining example of what young talent can achieve when nurtured with sincerity and consistency. Her success sends a strong message to families across the state — that dreams do come true with the right effort and support.”
Tanishka’s parents, Bhushan and Meenu Garg, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the coaches, school staff, and the broader chess community for their encouragement.
As Tanishka continues her ascent in the world of chess, her early triumph has already inspired many in Punjab and beyond, proving that age is no barrier when talent meets dedication.
