Terms & Conditions
Effective Date: August 5, 2025
Issued By: Mindcastle Chess Academy and its all entities.
Contact: mindcastlechess@gmail.com / airavat.tech.solutions@gmail.com
Phone: +91 99217 93839 / +91 79726 21998
This Agreement is entered into by and between Mindcastle Chess Academy, a registered entity having its principal place of business at Plot No. 2, Sant Kisangiri Nagar, Bhistabaug, Pipeline Road, Savedi, Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra, India – 414003 (hereinafter referred to as “MCA”, “we”, “us”, or “our”), and any person or entity (hereinafter referred to as “you”, “your”, “user”, “student”, or “parent/guardian”) who uses our website, services, or makes a payment for any of our offerings.
By using our services, registering for classes, or making any payments through mindcastlechess.com or via other authorized methods, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to be legally bound by the following Terms and Conditions.
1. Services Offered
1.1. MCA provides online chess coaching classes only. No physical products or tournaments are currently offered through the platform.
1.2. Paid tournaments may be offered separately in the future and will be governed by separate registration processes and policies.
2. Payment Terms
2.1. MCA primarily uses Razorpay as its preferred and standard payment gateway for all domestic and international transactions.
2.2. In exceptional cases, alternative payment methods may be accepted solely at the discretion of MCA.
2.3. Students must be at least 5 years of age to attend classes. Parents or legal guardians must make payments and accept these terms on behalf of minors.
3. Account Registration
3.1. You agree to provide accurate, complete, and up-to-date information including full name, contact details, and legal guardian information where applicable.
3.2. You are responsible for maintaining confidentiality of your account credentials.
4. Pricing and Payments
4.1. Pricing may vary based on region, student level, or promotional criteria. Regional pricing, where applicable, is final and binding on the customer.
4.2. By making payment, you authorize MCA to charge via Razorpay, including subscriptions, auto-payments, and other authorized mechanisms.
4.3. Any billing discrepancies must be reported to us within 48 hours of payment. Any concerns raised after that will be addressed at the sole discretion of MCA.
5. Demo Class and Enrollment
5.1. New users are eligible for one (1) free demo class, only if requested. It is not automatically assigned.
5.2. Upon enrollment, students may attend up to two (2) paid classes. Refund eligibility depends on usage and other conditions outlined herein.
6. Refund and Cancellation Policy
6.1. Refunds are permitted only if requested before completion of two (2) paid classes or if services are undelivered due to technical or other proven faults on MCA’s side.
6.2. Refund requests must be submitted to mindcastlechess@gmail.com or airavat.tech.solutions@gmail.com. All refund decisions are subject to internal review and require up to four (4) business days for approval.
6.3. Refunds will be processed via Razorpay within 7–8 business days, preferably to the original payment method. In case of technical exceptions, MCA will contact you to discuss alternative refund methods.
6.4. Rescheduling or cancellation of classes is entirely at the discretion of MCA. Students/parents may request changes, which may or may not be approved.
7. Chargebacks & Disputes
7.1. Any chargebacks initiated without first contacting MCA for resolution will be treated as a breach of terms.
7.2. MCA reserves the right to contest chargebacks and pursue legal remedies where fraudulent or unjustified claims are identified.
8. Intellectual Property
8.1. All website content, training material, designs, branding, media, logos, and related digital property are owned solely by Mindcastle Chess Academy, a registered legal entity. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or redistribution is prohibited and may attract legal action under Indian law.
9. Promotional and Media Consent
9.1. By enrolling, you grant MCA an irrevocable, perpetual, royalty-free global license to use the name, likeness, photographs, testimonials, video/audio recordings, and game content of the student (including minors) for use in promotions, marketing, advertising (online and offline), and educational purposes. This one-time consent remains valid beyond the duration of enrollment and does not require re-authorization.
10. Recordings and Digital Content Usage
10.1. All sessions may be recorded for internal quality control, staff training, or external promotions.
10.2. MCA reserves the right to use anonymized or named session data in future educational content. However, students (or guardians) may write to us to contest usage if they are uncomfortable, and MCA will honor such concerns on a reasonable basis.
11. Student Obligations
11.1. Students and guardians agree to maintain decorum and appropriate behavior in all MCA-affiliated sessions. Disruptive conduct may result in removal from classes without refund.
12. Disclaimers & Limitation of Liability
12.1. While MCA strives to provide high-quality coaching, we make no guarantees about outcomes such as rating improvements or tournament results. Services are offered on a best-effort basis.
12.2. Our total liability, in any case, will not exceed the value of course fees paid by the user in the previous two (2) months. We are not liable for indirect or consequential losses.
13. Legal Jurisdiction
13.1. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of India. All disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of courts located in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra.
14. Contact Details
For support, communication, or grievance redressal:
-
Email: mindcastlechess@gmail.com / airavat.tech.solutions@gmail.com
-
Phone: +91 99217 93839 / +91 7972621998
-
Address: Plot No. 2, Sant Kisangiri Nagar, Bhist Nagar Pipe Line Road, Savedi, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, India – 414003
PRIVACY POLICY
1. Introduction and Purpose
This Privacy Policy (“Policy”) is issued by Mindcastle Chess Academy (hereinafter referred to as “MCA”, “we”, “our”, or “us”), a registered organization operating the online platform at www.mindcastlechess.com (hereinafter the “Website”).
This Policy outlines how we collect, process, store, use, and protect personal information provided by users (hereinafter “you”, “your”, “student”, or “parent/guardian”) in connection with the use of our online chess coaching services, payment portals, and associated digital interfaces.
By using our services, registering on the Website, or submitting any personal information to MCA (directly or via payment platforms such as Razorpay), you accept and consent to the terms of this Policy.
2. Scope and Applicability
This Policy applies to all users accessing our services, including:
Individuals registering for demo or paid classes;
Parents or legal guardians of minor students;
Visitors to our Website who submit inquiries or payments;
Users making payments via Razorpay or any alternate method approved by MCA.
3. Information We Collect
MCA collects the following categories of personal information, either directly from you or via our partners such as Razorpay:
3.1 Personal & Guardian Information
Full name of student
Parent/guardian name
Contact number(s)
Email address
Age/date of birth
Location (city, country, region)
3.2 Transaction & Payment Data
Payment method (UPI, card, wallet, net banking, etc.)
Razorpay transaction ID
Currency used
Payment date and amount
Razorpay KYC compliance metadata
3.3 Service Usage Data
Class registration and attendance history
Session logs and gameplay content
Technical logs (device/browser/IP used to access services)
Feedback, survey responses, or testimonial submissions
3.4 Communication Data
Emails, SMS, or WhatsApp messages exchanged with MCA
Customer service chat logs
Promotional interactions or campaign responses
4. Legal Basis for Data Processing
MCA collects and processes personal data on the basis of:
Performance of a contract: For delivering coaching services you have subscribed to;
Legal obligations: As mandated under Indian IT Act 2000 (as amended), Razorpay KYC norms, and applicable data retention laws;
Legitimate interests: Improving service quality, safeguarding minors, internal reporting;
Consent: Where required (e.g., use in promotions, testimonials, or for class recordings).
5. How We Use Your Information
MCA uses personal data only for the purposes listed below. We do not sell or rent your information to any third parties.
5.1 Service Fulfilment
Class scheduling and session delivery
Instructor assignment and communications
Generating session/game records and progress tracking
5.2 Payments and Financial Reconciliation
Payment collection via Razorpay or alternative methods
Transaction verification and dispute resolution
Razorpay settlement audits, fee adjustments, or chargeback defense
5.3 Communication & Notifications
Reminders for classes or renewals
Service updates or feature changes
Razorpay payment confirmations or failed attempt alerts
5.4 Marketing and Promotions
Updates about new programs or features
Testimonials, student stories, and success highlights
Retargeted promotions or campaign-specific outreach
Note: By registering, you agree to receive promotional emails, SMS, WhatsApp messages, and phone calls related to MCA services. Marketing consent is mandatory and cannot be withdrawn once registration is complete.
5.5 Training, Quality, and Compliance
Recording sessions for trainer improvement and review
Ensuring safe, respectful interaction among students and instructors
Supporting internal audits, legal compliance, and fraud prevention
6. Data Retention & Storage
We retain your personal data for as long as necessary to:
Fulfill the purposes outlined in this Policy;
Comply with legal and accounting requirements (e.g., Indian tax laws, Razorpay reporting standards); and
Resolve disputes and enforce agreements.
Data related to payments and class records will be stored securely for a minimum of 3 years from the date of last activity or payment, unless longer retention is required under law.
7. Data Access, Copies & Disclosure
7.1 You have the right to request access to the personal data we hold about you. Such requests can be made by emailing mindcastlechess@gmail.com.
7.2 We will provide requested data within 7–8 business days of verification, unless legal or operational reasons prevent us from doing so.
7.3 Your data may be disclosed to the following third parties only for operational, legal, or compliance purposes:
Razorpay: For transaction processing, settlements, chargeback investigation, and KYC validation;
Payment compliance authorities or government bodies: If required by applicable law or regulatory mandate;
Email/SMS/WhatsApp service providers: For communication purposes under MCA’s direction;
Legal representatives: In the event of contractual breach, fraud, or litigation.
We do not disclose your data for advertising or resale purposes.
8. Data Security Measures
MCA adopts industry-standard technical and organizational safeguards to protect your information. These include but are not limited to:
Encrypted storage (at rest and in transit)
SSL-secured payment gateways (via Razorpay)
Device and IP monitoring for unauthorized access
Restricted administrative access and regular access audits
Despite our best efforts, no system is 100% immune from breaches. In the unlikely event of a data compromise, we will notify all affected users and competent authorities as per Indian data protection norms.
9. Rights of Minor Students
For students under the age of 18, personal data is collected with the express consent of a parent or legal guardian. Parents may:
Request correction or update of a child’s details;
Contest public or promotional use of the child’s content or likeness;
Request a copy of their child’s data at any time.
10. Changes to This Policy
MCA reserves the right to update or modify this Privacy Policy at any time. All changes will be published on our Website. Continued use of services after changes constitutes acceptance of the revised Policy.
We encourage users to review this Policy periodically for updates.
REFUND & CANCELLATION POLICY
1. Introduction and Scope
This Refund & Cancellation Policy (“Policy”) is issued by Mindcastle Chess Academy (hereinafter referred to as “MCA”, “we”, “us”, or “our”), a registered Indian business entity providing online chess coaching services via www.mindcastlechess.com.
This Policy outlines the terms, conditions, and procedures applicable to class cancellations, service disruptions, refund eligibility, and reversal of payments processed through Razorpay or any other MCA-approved method.
By registering for any course, making a payment, or requesting services from MCA, you acknowledge and accept the terms of this Policy in full.
2. Demo Class Policy
2.1. MCA offers one (1) free demo class to new users upon request only. This is not an automatically scheduled feature and must be requested through the registration or inquiry process.
2.2. No refund rights or service guarantees apply to demo classes.
3. Enrollment and Class Access
3.1. Upon confirmed enrollment and payment, students are granted access to scheduled coaching classes in accordance with their selected plan/package.
3.2. Each paid student is permitted to attend up to two (2) live coaching sessions before being ineligible for a refund, barring fault on MCA’s part.
3.3. By continuing beyond the second paid class, you forfeit any further claim to refund unless otherwise specified in this Policy.
4. Refund Eligibility
A student/guardian is eligible for a full refund under the following circumstances:
4.1.1 The refund request is raised before completion two (2) paid classes under the active enrollment;
4.1.2 The service was not delivered due to proven technical issues, trainer absence, or other service failures directly attributable to MCA;
4.1.3 The student was enrolled or charged in error and raises a claim within the timeframes set below.
4.1.4 Absenteeism from student on scheduled classes are considered as completed classes and applicable under 4.1.1 .
5. Refund Request & Documentation
5.1. All refund requests must be submitted in writing via email to one of the following: mindcastlechess@gmail.com or airavat.tech.solutions@gmail.com
5.2. The following details must be included in the request:
Full name of the student
Registered email address and phone number
Razorpay transaction ID or alternate payment reference
Date of payment
Clear reason for the refund
5.3. Incomplete or unverifiable requests will not be processed.
6. Refund Decision and Timeline
6.1. All refund requests are subject to review by MCA’s administrative team.
6.2. Upon receipt of a complete request, MCA will evaluate eligibility and communicate an approval or rejection decision within four (4) business days.
6.3. If approved, the refund will be initiated through Razorpay within seven (7) to eight (8) business days.
6.4. Refunds will be processed to the original method of payment wherever technically feasible. In the rare event of processing failure or technical difficulty, MCA will proactively contact the user to coordinate an alternate refund method.
7. Post-Refund Access
7.1. Once a refund is initiated, access to classes, recordings, and MCA services under that payment cycle will be revoked permanently.
7.2. Re-enrollment after a refund may be subject to eligibility review and administrative discretion.
8. Non-Refundable Situations
Refunds will not be granted in the following circumstances:
8.1.1 If more than two paid classes have been attended or made available;
8.1.2 If service issues were caused by the user’s own internet/device/network limitations or any kind of absenteeism without any prior notification.
8.1.3 If refund request is made beyond 4 business days from the date of payment for non-usage concerns;
8.1.4 For user dissatisfaction due to subjective outcomes or perceived lack of improvement;
8.1.5 For partial usage of multi-class or monthly/quarterly plans without prior issue notification;
8.1.6 In case of misconduct, breach of terms, or user suspension by MCA.
9. Scheduling, Rescheduling, and Cancellations
9.1. Class schedules are published and confirmed upon enrollment. Students may request changes, but all scheduling decisions are subject to MCA’s discretion.
9.2. MCA may modify class timings, substitute trainers, or reschedule sessions due to operational constraints. Notice will be provided in such cases.
9.3. If MCA cancels a class without rescheduling, the session will either be credited back to your plan or refunded at our discretion.
10. Razorpay Chargebacks & Disputes
10.1. Any chargebacks initiated through Razorpay or card issuers without prior communication with MCA shall be considered a breach of policy.
10.2. MCA reserves the right to contest chargebacks and submit documentation proving delivery of services.
10.3. If a chargeback is ruled in favor of MCA, the customer remains liable to remit payment and may be suspended from future services.
11. Limitation of Liability
MCA’s liability with respect to any refund or service failure shall be strictly limited to the amount paid by the user under the disputed transaction. No interest, penalties, indirect damages, or consequential losses shall be payable.
12. Modification Clause
MCA reserves the right to modify this Policy at any time. Updates will be published on our Website. Continued usage of services following updates constitutes acceptance of revised terms.
13. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
This Policy and all related matters shall be governed by the laws of India. Any disputes arising hereunder shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the competent courts in Ahmednagar / Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra.
Shipping & Exchange
1. Nature of Services
1.1. Mindcastle Chess Academy (“MCA”) offers only digital, online chess coaching services.
1.2. No physical goods, merchandise, or printed materials are shipped to customers.
1.3. All coaching sessions and materials are delivered electronically through platforms such as Zoom, Google Meet, email, etc.
2. No Shipping Required
2.1. As we do not offer or dispatch any physical products, the following are not applicable:
Courier tracking numbers
Delivery timelines
Shipping fees
Physical dispatch or handling
2.2. No shipping-related disputes or delivery complaints shall be entertained, as all services are virtual in nature.
3. Exchange Policy
3.1. MCA does not support exchanges since no tangible products or licenses are transferred.
3.2. Coaching sessions once scheduled are not exchangeable for other sessions, coaches, or groups, except under special cases approved by MCA at its discretion.
3.3. Students may request session changes in writing; however, MCA reserves full right to approve, deny, or propose alternatives.
4. Future Digital Content
4.1. In the future, if MCA offers downloadable digital content (e.g., recorded lessons, strategy packs), such offerings will be governed under a separate Digital Content Policy, detailing refundability, licensing, and access rights.
4.2. These digital products, if introduced, will also be delivered electronically via secure links or email.
5. Acknowledgment
By registering for services, the user fully understands and agrees that:
No physical shipment or delivery is involved;
Exchange of services is subject to MCA’s discretion;
All services are fulfilled digitally and deemed delivered upon session completion or access.