India slides down in 2026 GECI rankings: How can it be improved?

India slipped to 25th in the 2026 Gender Equality in Chess Index (GECI), highlighting gender imbalance in the sport. Despite strong performances by elite women players, female participation in youth championships remains low, and many girls drop out early. Experts say social pressures, financial hurdles and lack of structured support limit opportunities, stressing the need for better grassroots development and long-term systems to promote women’s chess.