The strong Indian squad with 65 players is expected to reap a big harvest from the event that offers 36 medals. In the last edition at Tehran, India won six gold, five silver and 10 bronze.

India is hoping for a clean sweep in some categories but players from Iran and Vietnam can give them a big challenge.

The Indian Challenge will be spearheaded by World Under-14 Champion Vidit Santosh Gujarathi and World Under-12 Champion Sayantan Das. Grand Master Salem A. R. Saleh of UAE who won Under-16 category in the last edition will start as favourite in Under-18 category this year.