Ravindra Kesari
Singrauli – The three-day NCL Inter-Regional Chess Competition 2025-26 came to a close at the Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL) sports complex. The tournament, which featured 13 teams and 78 players from various NCL projects and units, showcased impressive strategic skills and competitive spirit.
In a thrilling finale, the Nigahi team emerged as the champion in the team championship, while the Jayant team secured the runner-up position.

Individual and Team Excellence
The individual competition also saw outstanding performances:

- 1st Place: Ankit Gupta (Nigahi)
- 2nd Place: Shailendra Vishwakarma
- 3rd Place: Ashutosh Mishra (Jayant)
- 4th Place: Arunendra Avadhiya (Amalori)
- 5th Place: Sudhakar Singh (Nigahi)
A Game of Strategy and Skill
During the closing ceremony, NCL’s General Manager (HR/Welfare), Mr. Rajesh Trivedi, addressed the participants. He congratulated the winners and highlighted the importance of sports for the all-round development of employees. He drew a parallel between the game of chess and effective management, emphasizing that both require pre-planning, hard work, and quick decision-making. Mr. Trivedi noted that chess helps develop strategic thinking and creativity in players.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Dr. Pankaj Kumar (CMS, NSC), members of the Company JCC, the NCL Sports Promotion Board, and other officials and employees.
