India’s gaming and esports sector has witnessed a massive leap in 2024, with projections showing it will reach INR 10,487 crore by 2026, growing at an impressive 24% annually. The country is home to nearly 14 crore gamers, with the community expected to continue growing rapidly. This year marked a historic win for India at global events like the BRICS Esports Championship, where the country earned a silver medal in Tekken 8 and a bronze in eFootball.
Government support for the sector has also been a major catalyst. Initiatives such as the establishment of the National Centre of Excellence for AVGC-XR and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s backing of the WAVES Esports Championships 2025 reflect a strong commitment to fostering esports at all levels. Local governments are embracing the movement, with states like Bihar and Nagaland organizing esports tournaments in schools and cities, contributing to the sector’s growing popularity.
NODWIN Gaming, a leader in youth entertainment and esports, has played an instrumental role in elevating Indian gaming. The company’s flagship events, such as the BGMI Masters Series and DreamHack India, have expanded the reach of esports to national audiences. Their partnerships with international entities and acquisitions in the esports space have reinforced India’s position on the global stage.
In addition to esports, the mobile-first gaming market continues to thrive in India. However, 2024 saw an expansion of opportunities with the entry of global brands like CyberPowerPC, which introduced high-performance custom gaming PCs tailored for Indian gamers. The initiative, along with the introduction of 88 Games, an Indian game development studio, highlights India’s growing capacity for creating content that showcases its rich culture and heritage.
As the year closes, the Indian gaming and esports landscape stands as a cultural and economic powerhouse, well-positioned for even greater success in the coming years.
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