The All Kerala Esports Federation (AKEF) has announced a strategic roadmap to position Kerala as a global esports powerhouse, focusing on grassroots talent development, tournament expansion, and academic integration.
“Esports is no longer a niche activity; it has become a mainstream sport recognized at global events like the Olympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games,” said Raj Narayanan Pillai, President of AKEF. “Kerala has always been a leader in digital transformation, and now we are determined to emerge as a powerhouse for esports talent as well.”
The newly formed AKEF committee has mapped out a structured timeline to accelerate the growth of Kerala’s esports ecosystem:
🎮 Mid-2025: Launch of the Football Esports Championship Kerala, providing a platform for EA FC players to showcase their talent and gain recognition.
🏆 March 2026: Expansion of esports tournaments across multiple competitive gaming titles, fostering greater player engagement and community participation.
🏫 Post-2026: Integration of esports into academic programs by collaborating with schools and colleges, creating a sustainable talent pipeline for future esports professionals.
“By actively engaging with schools and colleges, we can identify and nurture players from a young age,” said Amal Arjun, Secretary of AKEF. “This will be pivotal in creating a talent pool capable of competing on the national and international stage.”
The global esports industry is booming, with prize pools exceeding $40 million, surpassing traditional sporting events like Wimbledon and the Cricket World Cup.
“Esports is more than just gaming; it’s an industry with vast career opportunities,” noted Raj Narayanan Pillai. “From coaching and content creation to event management and digital marketing, esports has the potential to fuel Kerala’s economic growth, attract investments, and generate jobs in emerging sectors.”
As part of its commitment to ethical esports development, AKEF is promoting responsible gaming under the slogan:
“Use digital, don’t let digital use you.”
The federation aims to position esports as a platform for skill development, discipline, and healthy competition, ensuring a balanced approach to gaming.
“With the right guidance and exposure, Kerala can produce world-class esports professionals who will make our state and country proud,” added Raj Narayanan Pillai.
With over 200,000 players participating in AKEF events over the last seven years and growing support from both the Kerala and Central governments, the state is now at the forefront of India’s esports revolution. Kerala is poised to make a significant impact on the global esports stage, paving the way for the next generation of esports champions.
🚀 Stay tuned as Kerala gears up to redefine India’s esports landscape!