Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge recently underscored the immense potential of the gaming industry to contribute significantly to both employment and the overall economy. Speaking at the Indian Gaming Convention (IGC), held at the Taj Palace in New Delhi, Kharge emphasised the need for a structured regulatory framework to facilitate the sector’s growth.
According to Kharge, India’s gaming market is currently valued at around Rs 16,500 crore and has the potential to grow exponentially, reaching up to Rs 34,000 crore within the next four to five years, reported ANI.
Creation Of Around 2.5 Lakh Jobs
He noted that this projected expansion could lead to the creation of around 2.5 lakh jobs, both directly and indirectly, in the gaming ecosystem. Kharge expressed his belief that the gaming industry, if regulated and supported appropriately, could become a significant driver of job creation, particularly for younger generations.
"If we can provide a regulatory framework for the gaming industry, I am sure it will create a lot of jobs and will benefit the economy in the long run," he remarked.
Kharge also pointed out the importance of responsible gaming and skill development within the sector. He called on both Central and state governments to take this opportunity seriously by promoting responsible gaming practices and ensuring that the workforce is adequately skilled to meet the industry's growing demands.
"I think the central government and state government need to take this seriously. (They should) push more for responsible gaming, push more for skilling in this sector, provide a conducive environment," he added.
Over 2,000 Gaming Startups
India is already home to a massive base of over 44 crore gamers, with more than 2,000 startups operating in the gaming sector. Kharge praised Karnataka’s leadership in technology and innovation, referring to the state as the "innovation and skilling capital of the nation."
He highlighted the state’s efforts to establish centres of excellence in animation, visual effects, and gaming technology, which have positioned Karnataka as a frontrunner in this burgeoning industry.
In addition, Kharge revealed plans for a gaming accelerator in Karnataka, aiming to foster further innovation in the industry. "Karnataka is the innovation and skilling capital of the nation. We have set up centres of excellence in animation, visual effects, graphics. We are also looking at a gaming accelerator. So by default since we are the technology capital we also become the gaming capital. We intend to anchor skilling and innovation in this sector, probably in the next 2-3 years you will see a lot of global IPs being produced from the state," he concluded.