India gets first WIM from Northeast: How 15-year-old Arshiya Das is rewriting chess geography
Times of India
by JYOTIRMOY HALDERFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
India’s Northeast has long been known for its talent but often overlooked by the mainland. However, 15-year-old Arshiya Das from Tripura has rewritten chess history by becoming the first Woman International Master (WIM) from the region. Competing in Serbia, she secured victory in the 42nd Rudar IM Round Robin tournament with a score of 6.5/9 and completed her final WIM norm, marking a significant milestone for both herself and her community.
Arshiya’s journey began innocently enough at the breakfast table when her parents gave her a laptop to encourage her to eat. Fascinated by the chess game on Windows, she soon requested a physical chessboard, sparking her lifelong passion. By six years old, she was already competing in national tournaments, earning bronze medals and gaining recognition. Her father, Purnendu Das, recalls how Arshiya’s dedication led them to send her to prestigious training centers in Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi, despite the challenges of accessing elite coaching from the Northeast.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Arshiya seized the opportunity to play online tournaments, participating in over 400 and emerging victorious in many. This experience not only honed her skills but also prepared her for international competition. Her success has brought pride to Tripura and highlighted the potential of chess talent in India’s Northeast, a region often overshadowed by mainland achievements.
Arshiya’s story is not just about individual success; it’s a testament to the growing global influence of Indian chess players. Her achievement opens doors for other young talents from the Northeast, proving that with dedication and opportunity, they too can excel on the world stage. As she prepares for her 10th-grade exams and future tournaments, Arshiya continues to break barriers, inspiring others to pursue their passions with determination.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/20/2026