Indian Chess League Launches

The Indian Chess League (ICL) just dropped, and it's not just another tournament—it’s a foundation for a new era led by Indian chess talent. RookTook, a startup incubated by T9L QUBE, teamed up with the STAIRS Foundation to make it happen. The Times of India+11Rediff+11The Economic Times+11 Their goal isn’t just to run a competition—it’s to identify, nurture, and spotlight grassroots chess stars across the nation. STAIRS, which stands for Society for Transformation, Inclusion & Recognition through Sports, brings the development muscle to the partnership. Rediff+1 Unlike past events that rely on global brands, this league is powered by Indian stakeholder ambition and innovation. It’s being pitched as the seed layer for an international chess league under India’s leadership. en.wikipedia.org+12PTI News+12The Economic Times+12 That level of forward thinking could be a turning point for chess infrastructure in the country.

With India already becoming the world’s fastest-growing chess powerhouse, the ICL could be the structure that organizes talent and attention into real opportunity. Think Nasscom for e-commerce—but for chess. It offers a platform for underprivileged youth to shine, making chess more inclusive than ever. As Indian players dominate the world stage—from Gukesh to Praggnanandhaa and Vaishali—this league gives them a venue for regular high-level play. Plus, fans get a chance to cheer for franchise-style competition right at home. The buzz could attract sponsors, broadcasters, and even A-list talent into chess’s orbit. If they play it right, the ICL could fast-track India’s position as a global chess superpower.