The Andhra Chess Association (ACA) proudly congratulates Sri N.M. Phani Kumar, International Arbiter (IA), on being invited by the Commonwealth Chess Federation to officiate as an Arbiter in the forthcoming Commonwealth Chess Championship. This prestigious appointment is not merely a personal achievement, but a matter of pride for the entire chess fraternity of Andhra Pradesh. He is the First Arbiter from Andhra Pradesh to officiate in an International championship abroad.
Sri N.M. Phani Kumar’s journey is a remarkable example of determination, perseverance, self-belief, and dedication to the game of chess. His life story stands as an inspiration to thousands of young players, arbiters, and sports enthusiasts who dream of building a professional career in chess.
Born into ordinary circumstances, Phani Kumar faced several struggles during the early stages of his life. While pursuing his degree education in 2003, he worked as a security guard to support his family and continue his studies. Life was challenging, but he never allowed circumstances to weaken his spirit.
It was during this phase of life, at PEDANA, that destiny introduced him to chess. One day, he observed an elderly man deeply engaged in a game of chess. The strategic beauty of the game fascinated him instantly. What began as curiosity soon transformed into passion. He learned the game with dedication, participated in tournaments, and steadily evolved into a rated chess player.
Through hard work and commitment, Sri Phani Kumar achieved a peak International Classical Rating of 1678, proving his strength and understanding of the game. However, his contribution to chess did not stop with playing alone.
Realising the vast opportunities within professional chess administration, he gradually transformed himself into a coach, organiser, and arbiter. His thirst for knowledge and passion for excellence pushed him to continuously upgrade his qualifications. Step by step, he progressed from Senior National Arbiter (SNA), FIDE Arbiter (FA) and International Arbiter (IA)
Today, he stands among the respected arbiters of India, earning recognition at both national and international levels. Sri N.M. Phani Kumar has officiated in several prestigious chess events across the country, including: Madurai Grandmaster Chess Tournament, GITAM Grandmasters Chess Tournament, KIIT International Chess Festival, Delhi Grandmasters Chess Tournament and worked as Chief Arbiter for , IM Round Robin Tournament in Tamilnadu. He also served as the Deputy Chief Arbiter for major national events such as, 62nd National Chess Championship, National School Chess Championship 2025. Apart from these, he has worked as Chief Arbiter for numerous International FIDE-rated tournaments and official state championships, earning appreciation for his professionalism, discipline, technical expertise, and calm decision-making.
One of his most admirable qualities is his commitment to developing chess at the grassroots level. Under the banner of SRR Charitable Trust, he successfully organised major International FIDE-rated events, creating opportunities for young players to gain exposure and international ratings.
As a coach, he has trained many rated players and motivated countless youngsters to pursue chess seriously. He is widely respected for his supportive nature and willingness to help organisers, arbiters, and players alike.
Sri Phani Kumar has also played a major role in educating the chess community. Understanding the importance of awareness in regional languages, he regularly delivers lectures on FIDE Laws of Chess in Telugu for players, arbiters, parents, and organisers. His sessions have helped many newcomers understand tournament rules, ethics, and professional standards in a simple and practical manner.
Equally inspiring is his dedication towards education. Despite facing hardships, he successfully completed M.Sc. Mathematics, Master of Physical Education (through correspondence). Even today, his learning journey continues, as he is presently pursuing Bachelor of Law (BL) at Christian Law College.
Behind the successful journey of Sri N.M. Phani Kumar stands the constant encouragement and unwavering support of his wife, Smt. Renuka Poldas, Senior National Arbiter (SNA). She has played a significant role in strengthening his professional journey by standing beside him through every stage of struggle, growth, and achievement. Her understanding of the game, administrative support, and active involvement in chess activities greatly contributed to his success as an arbiter, organiser, coach, and educator. Despite the challenges involved in balancing family responsibilities and professional commitments, she continuously motivated him to pursue excellence in chess administration and education. As an SNA herself, Smt. Renuka Poldas has also contributed to tournament management and arbiter activities, making them a dedicated chess family committed to the development of the sport in Andhra Pradesh.
His life perfectly demonstrates that success is not determined by one’s background, but by determination, discipline, and continuous effort.
The Andhra Chess Association especially appreciates his selfless services towards the development of chess in Andhra Pradesh. He has consistently supported ACA activities, guided organisers, mentored young arbiters, and helped build a professional officiating ecosystem within the state.
invitation from the Commonwealth Chess Federation is a well-deserved recognition of his years of hard work, technical excellence, and contribution to international chess administration. Sri N.M. Phani Kumar expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Andhra Chess Association for continuously encouraging and supporting his professional journey in chess administration. He specially thanked Sri KVV Sarma, Chairman, Sri Adusumilli Suresh, President, Sri K. Jagadish, Secretary, and all ACA officials for their constant guidance, trust, and encouragement at every stage of his career. He stated that the opportunities provided by the Andhra Chess Association to officiate in major state and national events helped him gain valuable experience and confidence to reach the International Arbiter level. Phani Kumar also mentioned that the ACA’s commitment towards developing arbiters and organisers in Andhra Pradesh has created a strong professional environment for chess officials to grow and excel at national and international levels. He dedicated this achievement to the entire Andhra Pradesh chess fraternity, organisers, players, parents, and fellow arbiters who supported and motivated him throughout his journey.
The Andhra Chess Association extends its heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Sri N.M. Phani Kumar, International Arbiter, and wishes him grand success in the forthcoming Commonwealth Chess Championship.
His extraordinary journey — from working as a security guard to becoming an International Arbiter representing India at the international level — is a shining inspiration for the younger generation. His story proves that with passion, persistence, and dedication, even the most difficult beginnings can lead to remarkable achievements.
The chess fraternity of Andhra Pradesh proudly salutes this inspiring son of the soil.
KV/-