Ashish Shelar Elected President Of E Sports Games Federation

Last Updated:August 29, 2026, 01:26 IST

Adv. Ashish Shelar elected president of Esports Games Federation. Maharashtra minister to lead India’s esports growth, eyes Asian Games.

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Maharashtra minister and Asian Cricket Council board member Adv. Ashish Shelar was elected president of the Esports Games Federation on Friday.

Shelar, who serves as Maharashtra’s Minister of Electronics, IT, AI and Cultural Affairs, was elected during the ESGF board meeting. His nomination was proposed by acting president Adv. Nandan Jha and chairperson Ashok Dhyanchand.

“The proposal received unanimous support from all the members and State Representatives present at the meeting,” ESGF said in a release.

The ESGF is the national body responsible for promoting, regulating and developing esports and mind sports in India. It is affiliated with the Global Esports Federation and International Esports Federation and is recognised by the Paralympic Committee of India.

Shelar said around 600 million people in India are engaged with esports and highlighted the national team’s upcoming participation in the Asian Games in Japan.

“Next month, in September, the Indian esports team will travel to Japan to participate in the Asian Games. We will endeavour to provide players with better platforms, training, competitions and opportunities for growth,” he said.

(With PTI Inputs)

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How will Ashish Shelar’s election impact Indian esports?

Ashish Shelar’s election as president of the Esports Games Federation (ESGF) is expected to give a new direction to the growth of esports in India. He aims to provide players with better platforms, training, competitions, and opportunities for growth.

What new opportunities await Indian esports players now?

Indian esports players can expect better platforms, training, competitions, and growth opportunities. The Esports Games Federation (ESGF) aims to promote, regulate, and develop esports and mind sports in India. India will also participate in the Asian Games in Japan next month with a 15-member contingent approved by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

Will India host major esports events in the future?

India is expected to host the Global Esports Games World Finals in Mumbai from March 19. Additionally, the Esports World Cup Foundation believes India has significant potential for esports growth over the next few years.

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