60 players with visual impairment compete at SSEI chess tournament in Mumbai

POSTED BY : ANAGHA SAKPAL DATED ON 25/08/2026 (9004379946)

• The 3rd foundation anniversary event organised by Shantilal Shanghvi Eye Institute brought together 60 players competing across 30 accessible chessboards

•  SSEI has treated 1,100 patients since September 2023, with 80% receiving free or subsidised care

Mumbai, 22 August 2026: Shantilal Shanghvi Eye Institute (SSEI), Wadala, marked the beginning of its third Foundation Anniversary celebrations with a chess competition for visually impaired players. The event was organised in collaboration with the All India Chess Federation for the Blind (AICFB) and the All Marathi Chess Association for Visually Challenged (AMCAVC). 60 number of players participated in the competition across 30 accessible boards. Shri Krishna Prakash, IPS, Additional Director General of Police (Training) attended as the chief guest.

The initiative reflected SSEI’s approach of extending care beyond clinical treatment to rehabilitation, confidence-building and independent living. Addressing the players, Shri Krishna Prakash said, “Shantilal Shanghvi Eye Institute and its partners have created a meaningful platform that champions inclusion, empowerment and encouragement. This meticulously organised chess championship demonstrates that visual impairment does not limit an individual’s discipline, courage, confidence or potential. The participants’ remarkable abilities are truly inspiring and offer valuable lessons for society. I am deeply impressed by the Institute’s facilities and its commitment to recognising talent, enabling opportunities and building a more inclusive community.”

Between September 2023 and July 2026, SSEI treated 1,100 patients, of whom 80% received treatment either free of cost or at subsidised rates. Highlighting the Institute’s broader approach to accessible eye care, Dr. Jenil Sheth, Head, Centre for Ophthalmic Training and Education and Centre for Visual Rehabilitation, and Head, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Strabismus and Neuro-ophthalmology Service, said, “India continues to face a substantial burden of permanent vision loss. Since its inception, SSEI has maintained a dedicated centre for visual rehabilitation to support patients living with permanent visual disabilities. Through low-vision assessments, assistive devices, rehabilitation training, counselling and support for independent living, we aim to help people with visual impairment participate meaningfully in society and lead independent, productive and fulfilling lives.”

The competition brought together visually impaired players, including patients from SSEI’s Rehabilitation and Low Vision services, and provided an inclusive platform to demonstrate their chess skills, confidence and determination. The players aged 12 years and above participated, out of which some of them were national players and qualified for international. Through its collaboration with AICFB and AMCAVC, the Institute aims to encourage greater participation of people with visual impairment in sport and community life.

Sharing the experience, a participant Ms. Vaishali Salavkar, 3rd position in National level chess competition said “Chess has been part of my life for more than 30 years, and it has given me confidence, discipline and the courage to keep learning. Since then, I have become a nine-time national champion, represented India at the Chess Olympiad and competed internationally in Spain and Greece. Every tournament teaches me something new, but this competition has been especially memorable because the arrangements were thoughtful, comfortable and accessible for us. Chess has also changed how my family and community see my journey; my mother and daughter now take immense pride in my achievements.”

About Shantilal Shanghvi Eye Institute

Shantilal Shanghvi Eye Institute (SSEI) is a NABH-accredited Centre of Excellence in eye care, established with a vision to reduce visual impairment and preventable blindness. Founded by the Shantilal Shanghvi Foundation, the institute is committed to making world-class, comprehensive eye care accessible to all. SSEI is the first eye institute in Western India to offer comprehensive eye care along with the provision of free treatment for underprivileged patients. Supported by a team of experienced ophthalmologists and healthcare professionals, the institute provides specialised treatment across a wide range of ophthalmic disciplines, including cataract, cornea, glaucoma, vitreoretina, oculoplasty and orbit, paediatric ophthalmology, and more. The 18-floor facility houses 48 consultation chambers, 10 state-of-the-art operation theatres, and an advanced diagnostic services floor. SSEI brings together patient care, community eye health, vision rehabilitation, education, and research under one roof, creating an integrated ecosystem for comprehensive eye care.