New Delhi [India], June 19 (ANI): Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday lauded Indian chess grandmaster Divya Deshmukh for defeating world number one Hou Yifan in the second leg of the Blitz semifinal at the World Team Blitz Championships, London.

Taking to X, Pushkar Singh Dhami posted, 'Hearty congratulations to Divya Deshmukh ji on defeating world number 1 player Hou Yifan in the semi-finals of the second stage of the World Team Blitz Championship held in London. This remarkable achievement of yours is an inspiration for chess players across the country. I have full faith that you will continue to make the country proud with your excellent performance in the future as well. Infinite best wishes for your bright future!'

https://x.com/pushkardhami/status/1935634215023858091

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Indian chess grandmaster Divya Deshmukh.

Taking to X, PM Modi posted, 'Congratulations to Divya Deshmukh on defeating the World No. 1, Hou Yifan in the 2nd leg of Blitz semifinal at the World Team Blitz Championships, London. Her success highlights her grit and determination. It also inspires many upcoming chess players. Best wishes for her future endeavours.

https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1935609992507191500

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya also posted, 'Checkmate ! Heartiest congratulations to our chess star Divya Deshmukh on her stunning win over World No. 1 Hou Yifan in the 2nd leg of the Blitz semifinal at the World Team Blitz Championships in London. Wishing you the very best for the future games.'

https://x.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1935240571893002316

Notably, India has been doing really well at the international level in chess as of late.

D. Gukesh, the reigning World Champion and recipient of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award secured a third-place position in the Norway Chess tournament, which concluded early in June. One of his standout moments during the competition was a win over world number one Magnus Carlsen, which was his first classical game win over him. Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi also finished fifth.

Also, Aravindh Chithambaram, clinched first place in the Stepan Avagyan Memorial Chess Tournament, and R Praggnanandhaa, secured second place in the same tournament. The tournament was held from May 28 to June 6. (ANI)