As the first Indian to successfully defend the FIDE Women’s Grand Swiss championship, grandmaster Vaishali Rameshbabu made history on Monday.

In the final round, she held previous Women’s World Champion Tan Zhongyi to a draw, securing her triumph and leaving her as the tournament’s only leader.

In addition to congratulating Grandmaster Vaishali Rameshbabu on her historic victory in the FIDE Women’s Grand Swiss 2025, which she called a “outstanding accomplishment,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised Anandkumar Velkumar for winning India’s first-ever speed skating world championship gold.

PM Modi remarked, “Excellent achievement,” in a post on X. To Vaishali Rameshbabu, congratulations. Her enthusiasm and commitment are admirable. Warmest regards for her further pursuits.

Vaishali’s victory guaranteed her a spot in the Candidates Tournament the following year. Vaishali, Koneru Humpy, and World Cup winner Divya Deshmukh will now represent India in the women’s division. Who will challenge the current women’s world champion will be determined by the Candidates Tournament.

Also, PM Modi congratulated Anandkumar Velkumar on his historic victory in the Senior Men’s 1000m Sprint at the Speed Skating World Championships 2025.

“We are proud of Anandkumar Velkumar for taking home the gold in the Senior Men’s 1000-meter sprint at the 2025 Speed Skating World Championships.” He is India’s first skating world champion thanks to his perseverance, speed, and spirit. Innumerable children will be inspired by his achievement. PM Modi congratulated him and wished him luck in all of his future endeavors.

India’s first-ever gold medal at the Speed Skating World Championships in China was won by Anandkumar Velkumar.

The 22-year-old speedster became India’s first world champion in the sport after winning the senior men’s 1000-meter sprint with a time of 1:24.924.