New Delhi, Sep 19: The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given the green light to establish the National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) in Mumbai, Maharashtra. This landmark initiative builds on the 2022-23 budget announcement by the Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, which included the formation of an AVGC Task Force aimed at promoting and developing the sector.
The creation of the NCoE is a significant step forward for India's burgeoning gaming and entertainment industry. The recognition of esports as a 'multi-sport event' by the Indian government has catalyzed the sector's growth, with several states actively supporting its development. This move reflects India's commitment to nurturing a vibrant gaming ecosystem that can compete on the global stage.
Further demonstrating this commitment, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has announced the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), which is set to take place in February 2025 in New Delhi. The summit will feature major esports tournaments, including popular games such as Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), World Cricket Championship (WCC), and eFootball. This event underscores the growing significance of esports in India and its potential to attract international attention.
In his Independence Day address, Prime Minister Modi encouraged Indian game developers and creators to make a global impact. The NCoE will play a pivotal role in realizing this vision by focusing on the development and enhancement of India's intellectual property (IP) in animation, visual effects, gaming, comics, and extended reality. By fostering innovation and supporting the creative industries, the NCoE aims to bolster India's position in the global market and contribute to the sector's overall growth and success.
