World Chess champion Vishwanathan Anand was, on Tuesday, conferred an honorary doctorate, the first for him, by the Sathyabama University in Chennai.

The doctorate was conferred upon at a special convocation of the University.

Accepting the degree, Anand said that the sole reason for his achievements was his determination to excel in the sport. He urged the students to pursue their education with zeal to reach great heights.

The university chancellor, Jeppiar, who also spoke, said it was a proud movement for the university, as it was the first in India to confer a doctorate on Anand, who had done the country proud.

"The union government should also honour the champion in a fitting manner," he added. Eminent Nanotechnologist Prof. Vijay Varadan was also conferred an honorary doctorate at the convocation.