Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar has been elected president of the Esports Games Federation at its board meeting in New Delhi. Shelar said he would work to strengthen India’s esports ecosystem by providing players with better platforms, training, competitions and growth opportunities
Published Date – 28 August 2026, 06:04 PM
Hyderabad: Noted sports administrator and Maharashtra Minister for Electronics, IT, AI and Cultural Affairs, and Asian Cricket Council board member Adv. Ashish Shelar, will head the Esports Games Federation (ESGF).
Shelar was elected president at the ESGF board meeting held in New Delhi on Friday. His name was proposed by ESGF Founder and Acting President Adv. Nandan Jha and Honorary Chairperson Ashok Dhyanchand. The proposal was seconded by ESGF Secretary General Gursharan Singh and received unanimous support from all the members and State representatives present at the meeting.
The meeting also discussed important measures for the growth of the esports ecosystem in India, ESGF’s upcoming initiatives and plans to give a new direction to the development of esports in the country.
Ashish Shelar expressed his gratitude to the board members and State representatives of the federation. He said the position was not merely a responsibility but an opportunity to give a new direction to the growth of esports in India.
“Esports is developing rapidly in India and our youth possess immense talent. Around 600 million people in our country are engaged with esports. Next month, in September, the Indian esports team will travel to Japan to participate in the Asian Games. Our endeavour will be to provide players with better platforms, training, competitions and opportunities for growth,” he said.
ESGF Founder and Acting President Nandan Jha said, “Under your guidance, India will see a new era of esports. We will work together with players, organisers, coaches and other stakeholders to build a strong esports ecosystem in India. Not only nationally, but with your vision and support, Indian esports will lead the global charge as well.”
On the occasion, Ashok Dhyanchand congratulated Ashish Shelar and said, “Your association with the emerging esports sector in India reflects your commitment to the world of sports. Your leadership will bring new energy and confidence among esports players and everyone associated with the sector.”
