Maharashtra's Vision: A Hub for Gaming and Digital Innovation
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Mumbai, March 19 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Thursday that the state is committed to establishing a strong ecosystem that caters to gaming, the creator economy, education, and digital infrastructure.
During an engaging session with content creators, he addressed several industry issues and shared his vision for a digital-first Maharashtra.
In a significant development for the creative sector, the Chief Minister unveiled plans to construct a cutting-edge complex over 50 acres adjacent to the Navi Mumbai International Airport.
This specialized hub will act as a comprehensive destination for e-sports arenas, content creation studios, and plug-and-play digital facilities.
CM Fadnavis also mentioned that 12 AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics) hubs are being set up throughout Maharashtra to nurture a world-class environment for game development.
He expanded on the initiative to create a complete facility for content creators on 50 acres near the Navi Mumbai airport, which will include e-sports infrastructure, content creation tools, and other relevant amenities.
When questioned about supporting his daughter in a gaming career, the Chief Minister responded: “If my daughter chooses to pursue a career in gaming, she will receive my full backing and 100 percent permission. No matter the field, hard work is the only key to success.”
Addressing the hurdles creators face in monetizing their content, Fadnavis indicated that the government is striving to connect creators with brands effectively. He mentioned a recent dialogue with YouTube CEO Neal Mohan about enhancing the ecosystem for creators, further reinforced by the state’s AVGC policy.
To equip students with clear career paths in gaming and animation, the government has launched the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT). The institute will operate on a ‘hub-and-spoke’ model, providing professional training and infrastructure for aspiring creators, he stated.
Fadnavis also provided insights on the state’s digital outreach. “The fibre network has already reached 70 percent of Maharashtra’s 40,000 villages. Our goal is to ensure that every village has access to high-speed, ‘lag-free’ internet within the next two to three years,” he noted.
In response to a suggestion about implementing 24/7 live streaming of the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), he stated that the government aims to utilize live platforms to publicize significant projects and essential decision-making processes.