Over 3,200 children participated in Telangana Regional Prodigy Championship 2026

A record 3,200 children from across Telangana participated in the 22nd Telangana Regional Prodigy Championship 2026. Experts stressed that while AI provides answers, abacus training strengthens concentration, mental arithmetic, critical thinking and overall brain development, making it relevant in today's digital world.

Hyderabad: A record 3,200 kids, aged between 5 and 14 years, from across Telangana participated in the 22nd Telangana Regional Prodigy Championship 2026 organised by SIP Abacus on Sunday at Classic Convention Three, Shamshabad.

One of the most anticipated highlights of the championship was the unique Concentration Round, conducted immediately after the main competition. The innovative round tested the ability of children to maintain focus and concentration despite distractions—a skill increasingly valued in today’s fast-paced digital world.

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Addressing the students, Pannuru Prabhakar, Principal, ARCA Global International School, explained how ancient India recognised the importance of Mathematics centuries ago, and its significance remains unchanged even in the era of Artificial Intelligence.

Dinesh Victor, Founder and Managing Director of SIP Academy India, spoke on “Abacus Training in the Age of AI” and said many people mistakenly believe that children no longer need mental arithmetic because computers and AI can perform calculations instantly. The reality is exactly the opposite. AI can provide answers. Abacus training develops the mind that asks the right questions. AI gives information; Abacus builds brain power.