Lokesh Meets Humpy, Promises Support for Chess Academy
Further, another young chess player, Challa Niharika, who recently earned the FIDE Woman International Master title, met Lokesh on Friday along with her family members.
VIJAYAWADA: Education Minister Nara Lokesh has assured chess grandmaster Koneru Humpy that the state government would extend the necessary support and cooperation for setting up a chess academy in Amaravati.
Humpy, accompanied by her father Ashok, met Lokesh at his Undavalli residence on Friday and sought the government's assistance for establishing the academy in the capital region. Lokesh responded positively to her request and assured her of the government's support for the initiative.
The minister also congratulated Humpy on her performance at the recently held Chess Olympiad 2026, where the Indian women's team won the bronze medal. Humpy also secured an individual bronze medal on Board One, adding to India's achievement in the prestigious international competition.
Further, another young chess player, Challa Niharika, who recently earned the FIDE Woman International Master title, met Lokesh on Friday along with her family members.
The minister congratulated Niharika on achieving the prestigious international title and praised her for showcasing her talent on the international stage. He said her accomplishments would inspire other young players to pursue excellence in chess.
During the interaction, Niharika told the minister that her next goal was to secure the Woman Grandmaster title. Responding to her ambition, Lokesh assured her that the state government would extend all possible support to her.
The meeting highlighted the state's recognition of emerging sporting talent and the importance of encouraging young players to reach greater heights in their respective disciplines.
In a separate development, Jonnadula Varaprasada Rao (Mani), a YSRC leader from Mangalagiri and president of the Mangalagiri master weavers association, joined the Telugu Desam along with his wife Krishnaveni.
At a programme held at his Undavalli residence, Lokesh welcomed the couple into the party by presenting them with yellow scarves. TDP politburo member Guttikonda Dhanunjay attended the event.
Varaprasada Rao has been associated with the handloom industry for years and has provided employment to numerous weavers. He became president of the Mangalagiri Master Weavers Association in 2005 and has continued in the position for 21 years.
He also serves as honorary adviser to the Mangalagiri Pattu Padmashali Bahuthama Sangham, a member of the Markandeya education welfare society and president of the Mangalagiri handloom profession protection committee. He has worked to address the problems faced by handloom workers.
