Madhya Pradesh is set to create a significant milestone by establishing an esports academy. Spearheaded by the state's sports department, this pioneering venture aims to provide a platform for young esports players to enhance their skills in online gaming.
India's esports sector has witnessed significant growth in recent years with games such as Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) and Valorant garnering serious popularity amongst Indian players, resulting in heightened interest and investment. Recognizing the potential of esports, it seems like the Indian government is implementing various measures and initiatives to safeguard the industry's privacy and security, such as regulating BGMI and levying a tax on real money gaming.
Madhya Pradesh Launches Esports Academy, Paving the Way for Esports Growth
According to a report from Times of India, Madhya Pradesh’s esports academy will offer young gamers an opportunity to sharpen their skills and compete at a professional level in the industry. The state’s Minister of Sports and Youth Welfare Yashodhara Raje Scindia expressed her enthusiasm for the esports Academy and its role in promoting both traditional and advanced sports. She said, “Madhya Pradesh has become a sports hub. The objective behind launching the Esports Academy is to promote all such sports that have a presence in the Asian Games and Olympics”.
To kickstart this initiative, the sports department of Madhya Pradesh plans to conduct a talent search program targeting esports enthusiasts between the ages of 12 and 17. The program will coincide with the MP State Junior Esports Championship, a 10-day tournament where young players can participate and showcase their gaming skills. By providing a platform for young talent, the Esports Academy aims to promote sports that have a presence in major international events such as the Asian Games and the Olympics.
The inclusion of esports as a medal sport in the Asian Games 2022 and as a pilot event for the Commonwealth Games 2022 further highlights the growing importance of esports in the international sporting arena. With the government's support and the industry's rapid growth, the launch of the Esports Academy in Madhya Pradesh promises to revolutionize the online gaming landscape and position of India.
