Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar was unanimously elected president of the E Sports Games Federation (ESGF) at the body's Board Meeting held in New Delhi on Friday, 28 August, marking a significant leadership development for one of India's two rival national esports bodies. Shelar, who also serves as the state's Minister of Electronics, IT, AI and Cultural Affairs, brings a multi-sport administrative background to the role.

How the Election Unfolded

Shelar's name was proposed by ESGF founder and acting president Adv. Nandan Jha and chairperson Ashok Dhyanchand, and was seconded by ESGF secretary general Gursharan Singh. The proposal received unanimous support from all board members and state representatives present at the meeting — an uncontested mandate that signals internal cohesion at a federation still establishing its footprint.

Shelar's Sports Administration Background

A former office-bearer of both the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Shelar currently serves as a board member of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). His pivot to esports governance reflects a broader trend of established sports administrators moving into the rapidly expanding competitive gaming sector. The ESGF was set up as a rival to the Esports Federation of India, and the two bodies have been competing for institutional recognition and affiliate memberships.

What Shelar Said

After his election, Shelar described the position as 'not merely a responsibility but an opportunity to give a new direction to the growth of esports in India.' He cited the scale of India's gaming community — claiming around 600 million people in the country are engaged with esports — and pointed to an imminent international milestone: 'Next month, in September, the Indian esports team will travel to Japan to participate in the Asian Games,' he said, adding that the federation's focus would be on 'better platforms, training, competitions and opportunities for growth' for players.

Federation's Scope and Affiliations

The ESGF describes itself as a national body working towards the promotion, regulation, and development of esports and Mind Sports in India. It is a member of the Global Esports Federation (GEF) and the International Esports Federation (IESF), and is recognised by the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI). The Board Meeting also discussed measures for growing the esports ecosystem, upcoming ESGF initiatives, and a strategic direction for player development at the grassroots level.

What the Leadership Change Signals

Notably, Jha expressed confidence that under Shelar's guidance, 'India will see a new era of esports,' while Dhyanchand said the appointment 'reflects your commitment to the world of sports.' Secretary general Singh indicated that special emphasis would be placed on national-level competitions, grassroots talent, and preparing players for international events. With the Asian Games approaching and global esports gaining Olympic-adjacent legitimacy, Shelar's appointment positions the ESGF to push for greater visibility — and potentially greater regulatory authority — in India's contested esports governance landscape.