Will the TN Government's AVGC-XR Centre of Excellence Transform Chennai into a Digital Media Hub?

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Will the TN Government's AVGC-XR Centre of Excellence Transform Chennai into a Digital Media Hub?

Synopsis

The Tamil Nadu government is set to establish the Viyan AVGC-XR Centre of Excellence in Chennai, a crucial initiative aimed at transforming the state into a national leader in digital media and technology sectors like animation and gaming.

Key Takeaways

  • Tamil Nadu government launches the Viyan AVGC-XR Centre of Excellence in Chennai.
  • Focus on animation, gaming, and extended reality.
  • Initial phase to provide co-working spaces and specialized labs.
  • Future expansion includes a 100,000 sq.ft campus.
  • Decentralization efforts to establish regional hubs in multiple cities.

Chennai, Nov 13 (NationPress) In an impressive stride towards bolstering its digital media and emerging technology landscape, the Tamil Nadu government, led by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, has unveiled plans to establish the Viyan AVGC-XR Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Chennai.

Envisioned as a pioneering initiative to position the state as a frontrunner in animation, visual effects, gaming, comics, and extended reality, this project is being driven by the Electronics Corporation of Tamil Nadu (ELCOT).

Recently, ELCOT issued an Expression of Interest (EoI) to seek partnerships with industry players, academic institutions, and technology collaborators for the facility's development, operation, and long-term management.

Under the guidance of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, the Tamil Nadu government aims to cultivate a world-class environment that fosters innovation, supports content creation, and equips young talent with future-ready skills in the rapidly evolving AVGC-XR sector.

Initially, the Centre of Excellence will operate from a rented space of approximately 12,000 to 15,000 sq.ft in Chennai, featuring co-working and private studio units for startups and MSMEs, along with specialized labs dedicated to performance capture, 2D and 3D art, audio and foley services, and XR testing.

The hardware rental labs will provide creators access to high-end production equipment, while screening rooms and community spaces are expected to be hubs for collaboration, workshops, and networking.

The second phase of the project will significantly expand with a 100,000 sq.ft purpose-built campus designed to accommodate around 500 professionals.

This enhanced facility will feature advanced studios for quality assurance, XR development, and digital prototyping, crafting an integrated ecosystem for creators, developers, and entrepreneurs.

To decentralize opportunities beyond the capital, the third phase of the initiative envisions regional “spokes” in Coimbatore, Madurai, Trichy, Salem, and Tirunelveli.

These centers will provide access to training, infrastructure, and production resources for startups and small enterprises operating outside Chennai, thereby fostering a more inclusive innovation landscape statewide.

Industry partners are anticipated to guide the selection of hardware, software, and production tools, ensuring the center aligns with global standards.

They will also assist in the facility’s daily operations and help shape its long-term strategic direction.

The forthcoming AVGC-XR policy, expected to be introduced soon, is aimed at enhancing education and skills, improving infrastructure, reforming the business landscape, and providing targeted incentives.

In combination, the Centre of Excellence and the new policy are set to create an enabling ecosystem that solidifies Tamil Nadu’s status as a leading hub for digital media technologies in India.

aal/rad

Point of View

The establishment of the Viyan AVGC-XR Centre of Excellence in Tamil Nadu represents a pivotal moment in India's digital media evolution. By fostering local talent and decentralizing opportunities, the initiative aims to create a robust ecosystem that can compete on a global scale.
NationPress
13/11/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the AVGC-XR Centre of Excellence?
The AVGC-XR Centre of Excellence aims to strengthen Tamil Nadu's position as a leader in digital media by providing facilities for training, innovation, and collaboration in the fields of animation, visual effects, gaming, and extended reality.
Where will the Centre of Excellence be located?
The Centre of Excellence will be established in Chennai, initially operating from a leased facility of around 12,000 to 15,000 sq.ft.
What are the future plans for the Centre of Excellence?
Future plans include expanding to a 100,000 sq.ft purpose-built campus and creating regional hubs in cities like Coimbatore, Madurai, and others to decentralize opportunities.
How will the AVGC-XR policy support the initiative?
The AVGC-XR policy will enhance education, infrastructure, and business conditions, providing targeted incentives to foster growth in the digital media sector.
Who will manage the operations of the Centre?
Industry partners will play a crucial role in guiding operations, selecting tools, and shaping the strategic direction of the AVGC-XR Centre of Excellence.
Nation Press