Yerwada : In a remarkable achievement that is bound to inspire, a group of inmates from Yerwada Central Jail, Pune, has clinched a gold medal for India at an international online chess competition. This incredible feat by the incarcerated chess enthusiasts is a testament to their determination and the power of rehabilitation programs.
On October 18, 2023, a nine-member team of prisoners from Yerwada Central Jail emerged victorious in the final match against competitors from EL Salvador, securing the coveted gold medal. This triumph was the culmination of a week-long international online chess competition, which witnessed participation from 118 teams comprising inmates from 50 different countries.
The journey to this momentous win was marked by hard work and dedication. The Yerwada prisoner’s team had previously achieved the top position in Asia during the qualifying rounds, earning them the right to represent India in the international arena. Their selection for the global competition followed a stellar performance in a national contest called “Parivartan-Prison to Pride to Prison.” This event was organized by the Indian Oil Corporation Limited in collaboration with jail authorities, and it served as the springboard for the Yerwada team’s entry into the international competition.
The International Chess Federation initiated this chess competition for prisoners in 2019, making it one of the most significant chess events to be held within correctional facilities. In preparation for the competition, inmates at Yerwada Jail received specialized training as part of the unique initiative called “Parivartan.” Renowned chess grandmasters, including Abhijeet Kunte and Soumya Swaminathan, played a pivotal role in training the inmates. These initiatives, championed by prison authorities, aim to provide inmates with opportunities to reintegrate into society and shed their criminal pasts, ultimately becoming productive and law-abiding citizens.
The victory of these inmates not only brings pride to India but also underscores the significance of rehabilitation programs and the positive impact they can have on individuals, even within the confines of a correctional facility. It demonstrates that determination, skill development, and the power of second chances can transform lives and lead to remarkable achievements.
