Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar has been elected president of the Esports Games Federation (ESGF), as the organisation looks to strengthen India’s competitive gaming ecosystem and create more opportunities for aspiring esports players.
Shelar was unanimously elected during the ESGF board meeting held in New Delhi on August 28. His nomination was proposed by ESGF founder and acting president Nandan Jha and honorary chairperson Ashok Dhyanchand, with secretary general Gursharan Singh seconding the proposal.
Representatives from 22 states attended the federation’s general body meeting, where members discussed the development of esports in India and the federation’s plans for the future.
Shelar Sets Out Vision for Indian Esports
Following his election, Shelar said his new position provides an opportunity to give fresh direction to the growth of esports in the country.
He highlighted the growing popularity of competitive gaming and the talent emerging among India’s younger generation. Shelar said the federation would work towards providing players with better platforms, training programmes, competitions and opportunities for career development.
The focus is expected to extend beyond established professionals, with grassroots development also playing an important role. Providing aspiring players with access to structured competitions and training could help create a stronger pathway from amateur competition to the professional level.
Focus on Grassroots Talent and International Competition
The ESGF is also expected to place greater emphasis on national-level competitions and preparing Indian players for international events.
Shelar pointed to India’s upcoming participation in the Asian Games in Japan, where the Indian esports contingent is scheduled to compete in September. The event will give Indian players another opportunity to compete against some of the strongest esports talent from across Asia.
The development comes as esports continues to gain recognition as a competitive discipline in India, with players and teams increasingly participating in domestic and international tournaments.
A New Chapter for ESGF
The Esports Games Federation works towards the promotion and development of esports and mind sports in India. Under Shelar’s leadership, the organisation is expected to work with players, coaches, tournament organisers and other stakeholders to develop a more structured competitive ecosystem.
The challenge for the new leadership will be turning the country’s growing interest in esports into sustainable opportunities for players while improving the quality of domestic competition.
With grassroots development, training and international participation among its key priorities, Shelar’s appointment marks a new phase for the ESGF as it looks to contribute to the continued development of Indian esports.l