The Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) has long been a member of the Chess Federation of Pakistan (CFP). Since taking office in June 2022, I have engaged with SSCB to introduce chess into the Armed Forces of Pakistan. After extensive discussions with Secretary SSCB and Executive Member of CFP, Lt. Col. Ghulam Shabbir, we took the first steps toward making this vision a reality.
The first major breakthrough came with my meeting with Rear Admiral Basit Butt HI (M), President of SSCB, on 8th February 2023. His support for introducing chess into the Armed Forces was instrumental. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of SSCB Secretary and the CFP, chess was officially included in the SSCB sports calendar.
A key meeting followed in July at JSHQ Islamabad, attended by all sports officers of the Armed Forces, where plans were solidified.
I am proud to announce that the first-ever Inter-Services Chess Championship, hosted by Pakistan Air Force in Peshawar, was a resounding success! All three services—Pakistan Army, Navy, and Air Force—competed, with PAF claiming the championship title, Pakistan Navy securing 2nd place, and Pakistan Army finishing 3rd.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the winners and participants of this historic championship, and a special thanks to the host, Pakistan Air Force, Mr. Salman and President PAF Sports department for organizing a remarkable event. CFP Vice President Prof. Iqtedar Uddin and CFP Development Officer Mr. Muhammad Waqar from the KP Chess Association, were nominated by CFP to coordinate the Championship.
It was a pleasure to discuss the future development of chess in the Armed Forces of Pakistan with the Chief Guest, AVM Sajjad Noori, AOC NAC. After 19 months of dedication and hard work, chess has finally earned its place in the inter-services sports calendar!
Hanif Qureshi
National Chess Master & Olympian
Advisor to H.H Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President of the Asian Chess Federation
Member, FIDE Chess in Education Commission (EDU)
President, Chess Federation of Pakistan (CFP)
