Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, in collaboration with the Department of Sports & Physical Education and St. Vincent Pallotti College of Engineering & Technology, Nagpur, organised a University-Level Chess Tournament from 16th to 18th October 2023. The inaugural program saw the participation of approximately 544 students from various colleges out of which 180 female and 364 male players representing colleges from the region, making it a fiercely contested chess battle.

The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Chess Grandmaster Anup Deshmukh, a Chatrapati awardee, Mr.Indrajeet Singh Randhawa, Chief Guest, Fr. Paul Chandrankunnel, Director, SVPCET and Dr. S.V. Gole, Principal, SVPCET.

Chess Grandmaster Anup Deshmukh delivered an inspiring speech to the tournament participants, emphasizing the importance of concentration and mental fortitude in chess. He highlighted that chess is a psychological game where players must conceal their intentions through expressions and body language.

The conclusion of the Inter-Collegiate Chess Competition Men and Women Tournament 2023 with a grand prize distribution ceremony was organised on 18th October 2023. Dr. Sharad Suryavanshi, Director Physical Education, RTMNU, Dr. Nitin Jangitwar, Principal, Kalode Mahavidyalaya, Fr. Dr. Paul Chandrankunnel, Director, SVPCET, Fr. James Thomas, Assistant Director, SVPECT, Dr. S. V. Gole, Principal, SVPCET and Dr. Ashlesha Nagpure (Ingole), Sports Incharge .

In the women's category, Shri Ramdev Baba College of Engineering secured first place, followed by St. Vincent Pallotti College of Engineering in the second place, and Dr. Ambedkar College Dikshabhumi in the third place.

In the men's category, Shri Ramdev Baba College of Engineering emerged as the first-place winner, with St. Vincent Pallotti College securing the second place, and YCCE College claiming the third place.

The competition was expertly organised under the guidance of Competition Head & Sports Incharge, Dr. Ashlesha Nagpure (Ingole), along with Technical Officers, Mr. Pravin Pantavnai and Mr. Jeet Thakre, ensuring a seamless execution of the competition.