New Delhi: Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha met and felicitated the winners of the inaugural WAVES Esports Championship during the preparations for the 3rd Asian Youth Games at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) headquarters. Organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting this past May, the championship marked a significant step in India’s growing recognition of esports as a legitimate and competitive domain of sports.

The medal winners included Danial Patel (Gold, eFootball), Tejaskumar Hasmukhbhai Bhoi (Gold, World Cricket Championship 3), and Pavan Kampelli (Bronze, eFootball at the Asian Esports Games, Bangkok). These young athletes have not only showcased outstanding talent but have also contributed to enhancing India’s stature on the global esports platform.

Speaking at the event, PT Usha said, “India’s esports future lies in capable hands, and today’s interaction with the champions of the WAVES Esports Championship has been truly inspiring. The discipline and excellence shown by these athletes mirror that of any traditional sportsperson. I wholeheartedly thank Prime Minister Modi for his visionary steps in recognising esports and creating platforms like WAVES to showcase India’s digital prowess. The Indian Olympic Association stands committed to supporting our esports athletes as they script new chapters in Indian sports.”

Reflecting on the experience, Danial Patel, gold medallist in eFootball, said, “Meeting PT Usha ma’am was surreal. Her encouragement gave me a new sense of pride in what we do. Esports is growing rapidly, and I believe we’re only scratching the surface of India’s global potential.” Tejaskumar Bhoi, who secured gold in World Cricket Championship 3, added, “It’s an honour to represent India and be recognised by a legend like PT Usha. The support from institutions and platforms like WAVES is critical. With continued guidance, India can become a global powerhouse in esports.” Bronze medallist Pavan Kampelli said, “Today was not just about medals but about validation. PT Usha’s words and presence reaffirmed that esports athletes are being seen, heard, and celebrated in India. The future is digital, and India is ready.”

Also present at the occasion was Lokesh Suji, Director of the Esports Federation of India (ESFI) and Vice President of the Asian Esports Federation. Calling the moment historic, he stated, “It was a moment of immense pride to see our WAVES Esports Championship medal winners being acknowledged by none other than Padma Shri PT Usha ji, President of the Indian Olympic Association. This meeting is a landmark for Indian esports—it reflects growing acceptance and respect for our athletes within the mainstream sporting ecosystem. The support from the government, IOA and sporting legends like PT Usha ji lends credibility and encouragement that is invaluable for the growth of the ecosystem. It sends a powerful message to the youth of India—that with discipline, focus, and passion, esports can be a rewarding and respected career path.”

 

 

 

 

IANS inputs