Gaming Now a National Sport? - New Policies Afoot to Recognize Gaming as a PROPER Sport

The Government of India has officially recognised 'E-Sports' (Electronic Sports) as a part of the Multi-sports events. ESports will be taken care of by The Department of Sports under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. 

Gaming In India

Meanwhile, 'Online Gaming' will be under MEITY (Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology). This is a big move and a huge win for the Indian Esports Industry that has been fighting for recognition under the Sports segment, apart from the inclusion under gaming.

While gaming has gained widespread popularity and has a significant presence in many countries, it has not been considered a traditional sport in the same way as activities such as soccer, basketball, or baseball. 

The policies at state and national level talks about the framing of a new curriculum at school and college level which will pave the way for a “Create in India” campaign and create more job opportunities across the country. 

Gaming In India

Esports, or electronic sports, refers to organised video game competitions, typically between professional players or teams. Esports has gained significant popularity in India in recent years, with a number of major tournaments and leagues being held in the country. The esports industry in India is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by the increasing popularity of video games and the growth of internet infrastructure and connectivity.

There are several major ESports organisations in India, including the Indian Gaming League (IGL), which hosts a number of tournaments and leagues featuring popular games such as Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Dota 2, and League of Legends. IGL also works to promote ESports in India and support the growth of the industry.

Gaming Events In India

In addition to organised competitions, there are also a number of amateur ESports leagues and tournaments in India, including the Indian ESports Championship, which is organised by the Indian ESports Association. These events provide opportunities for amateur gamers to compete and potentially move on as professional players.

With a growing industry and a strong community of players and fans, the popularity of video games and ESports continues to rise. 

The Information and Broadcasting Ministry has released National and State level policies for AVGC-XR  (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics) sector in India and also unveiled a report ‘Realising AVGC-XR Sector Potential in India’ prepared by a task force. 

Gaming In India

The report recommended a national AVGC-XR mission with a budget outlay to be created for integrated promotion and growth of the AVGC sector. 

It also recommended launching a ‘Create in India’ campaign with exclusive focus on content creation in India, for India and the world.

It also recommended setting up an international AVGC platform, along with a gaming expo with focus on FDI, co-production treaties and innovation.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) of India has announced that it will draft policies to boost the animation and gaming sector at the national and state level. 

This could include initiatives to support the development and growth of the industry, such as funding for research and development, tax incentives, or grants for small businesses.


 

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