New Delhi
Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha met and congratulated the winners of the first-ever Esports Championship held in May. The event, supported by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, was held at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) headquarters during preparations for the 3rd Asian Youth Games in Bahrain.
The winners were Danial Patel (Gold in eFootball), Tejaskumar Hasmukhbhai Bhoi (Gold in World Cricket Championship 3), and Pavan Kampelli (Bronze in eFootball at the Asian Esports Games in Bangkok). These young players have helped raise India’s profile in the global esports world.
PT Usha praised their discipline and achievements. “Meeting these champions was inspiring. Their commitment equals that of traditional athletes. I thank Prime Minister Modi for recognising esports and building platforms like WAVES,” she said. She also promised IOA’s full support for India’s esports athletes.
Danial Patel said meeting PT Usha gave him a strong sense of pride. “Her support shows that esports matters in India,” he said. Tejaskumar Bhoi called the recognition an honour and stressed the importance of support from events like WAVES. Pavan Kampelli added, “Today was not just about medals, but about being seen and respected.”
