Guwahati: Assam’s International Master Mayank Chakraborty secured the first runners-up position at the 54th National Open Junior Chess Championship, held from December 15 to 24 in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand.
The event was organised by Seraikela-Kharsawan District Chess Association under the aegis of All Jharkhand Chess Association and All India Chess Federation.
A total of 208 players from across the country competed in the prestigious tournament. Mayank qualified for the national event after winning the Under-19 State Junior Chess Championship 2025, which was held at South Point School.
Mayank’s consistent performance and strategic brilliance throughout the tournament helped him secure the second position at the national level.
With this achievement, Mayank has earned selection to represent India at the Asian Junior, World Junior and Western Asian Junior Chess Championships scheduled for 2026.
This marks the first time a chess player from Assam has secured a podium finish at the National Junior Championships, making it a significant milestone for the state’s chess fraternity.
Officials from the Assam Chess Association hailed the achievement as a breakthrough moment for chess in the state, noting that Mayank’s success is expected to inspire young players and strengthen Assam’s presence on the national chess circuit.
Mayank, who has been training under experienced coaches, said he is now focused on preparing for international competitions in 2026.
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He expressed gratitude to his family, coaches and the Assam chess fraternity for their support, and said he hopes to build on this result by delivering strong performances on the continental and world stages.
