Srinagar: Demonstrating her consistency on the chessboard, Minha Ayaz Wani once again brought recognition to Kashmir by winning the ‘Best Female Player’ award at the 5th AICF Chess for Everyone Open FIDE Rating Chess Tournament 2025. This event took place at the Indoor Sports Complex, Polo Ground, Srinagar.
The national-level tournament, organised by the All India Chess Federation (AICF) and supported by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, featured about 200 players from across the country, including seniors, juniors, men, and women. This made the competition both tough and exciting.
Minha, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), showed remarkable composure and skill throughout the tournament, earning 5.5 points out of 9 rounds. She won three games, drew five—two of which were against rated opponents—and lost only one. Her strong overall performance earned her a cash prize and a trophy.
The 18-year-old’s success reflects the increasing presence of Kashmiri talent in the national chess scene. Minha’s achievements have not only raised her profile but also inspired many young players, especially girls, to pursue chess with passion and confidence.
Previously, Minha had established herself as one of Kashmir’s most successful young chess players. She won two gold medals at the national level, earned three gold medals in state championships, and consistently secured gold medals across inter-district, district, and zonal tournaments, a record that highlights her dedication and skill in the sport from a young age—(KNO)
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