Esports Debuts at Khelo India Youth Games 2025 Featuring BGMI, Street Fighter 6, Chess & eFootball

India Recognizes Esports as Mainstream Sport – Esports joins KIYG 2025 as a demonstration event (May 6–7, Bihar) – Games include BGMI, Street Fighter 6, Chess, and eFootball – Chess featured in EWC 2025 with ₹12.6 Cr prize pool – Strong move toward national recognition of esports

Industry Voices & State Initiatives Akshat Rathee (NODWIN): Opportunity for Tier 2 & 3 city talent Animesh Agarwal (S8UL): Govt support crucial for diverse gaming ecosystem – Bihar, Maharashtra, TN & Nagaland backing grassroots esports – Chess + mobile & console titles show balanced inclusion

Esports on the Global Stage – S8UL to represent India in Chess, SF6, and more at EWC 2025 Pavan Kampelli won bronze in eFootball at 2024 Asian Esports Games – Esports → Medal sport in 2026 Asian Games Olympic Esports Games debut in 2027 KIYG 2025 sets the stage for India's esports future