Tamil Nadu is set to make history by hosting the Chennai Esports Global Championship (CeGC), the first international esports tournament organized by a state government in India. Scheduled to take place later this year, the event will bring top esports teams from around the world to Chennai.The Tamil Nadu Youth Welfare and Sports Development Department is spearheading the initiative, with a âč562 crore budget allocation for 2025-26, a portion of which will support CeGC. The tournament aims to establish Chennai as a major esports hub, setting new benchmarks for the industry.
CeGC follows the success of the CMâs Trophy 2024, which saw over 5,000 participants competing in various esports titles. The tournament highlights the increasing recognition of esports in India, especially after the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports included it in its cash incentive program for athletes.
Tamil Naduâs Role in Global Esports Growth
Esports is now a mainstream sporting event, featuring in the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games, with plans for an Olympic debut in 2027. By hosting CeGC, Tamil Nadu is providing a platform for homegrown gaming talent while strengthening Indiaâs position in the global esports industry.
With this bold move, Tamil Nadu is not only supporting competitive gaming but also driving investment and job opportunities in the rapidly growing esports sector.