The DR Foundation works with underprivileged and disabled youth across India — using chess, scholarships, and health programmes to unlock potential and open doors.
Chess as a tool for cognitive development, focus, and opportunity — for youth who need it most.
Producing FIDE-rated players, tournament champions, and leaders from underprivileged and disabled communities.
Mental, dental, and physical health programmes that address the whole person — not just the student.
What We Do
Three interconnected pillars that give young people — regardless of ability, background, or means — a genuine shot at the future they deserve.
Started in 2016, Project Checkmate uses chess to promote education, cognitive growth, and wellbeing — with a focus on visually impaired and underprivileged youth. We have produced two internationally FIDE-rated players and organised the North Zone Chess Championship for the Blind.
Explore the programmeFive editions since 2018 — including the Devajyoti and Shaktinaari Scholarships — awarding cash prizes and year-long mentorship to students with disabilities aged 15–30. One scholar went on to earn a full merit scholarship to Ashoka University.
Meet our scholarsPartnering with organisations across India and beyond — dental camps, menstrual hygiene education, mental health sessions, and the DRF Purposeful Living Series — because empowerment starts with a healthy body and mind.
Learn moreOur Impact
Every number here represents a young person whose path changed.
Our Story
“Chess taught me that every move matters. The DR Foundation is built on that same belief — that every young person, regardless of circumstance, deserves a chance to make their move.”
Devanshi Rathi founded Project Checkmate in 2016 while still in Class 11 at Modern School, Vasant Vihar — running on-ground chess training at the National Association of the Blind, R.K. Puram. Two years later, she formalised it as the Devanshi Rathi Foundation, a Section 8 non-profit registered in New Delhi.
A Commonwealth Chess Championship bronze medalist, Queen’s Young Leader Highly Commended Runner-Up, and UC Berkeley graduate, Devanshi brings both lived experience and institutional credibility to the work.
Read our full storyOur Partners
We work with NGOs, clinics, and organisations who share our belief that every young person deserves access to education, health, and opportunity.
Volunteer, intern, partner, or support the DR Foundation. Every contribution — of time, skills, or funds — goes directly toward young people across India.
See How to HelpCIN: U92490DL2018NPL335483
