MUMBAI: India’s fast growing eSports movement has got a major boost with the announcement of the launch of eSports Players Welfare Association (EPWA).
EPWA, a non-profit organisation, has been created solely to ensure that the professional, legal and contractual rights of eSports players in India are safeguarded.
EPWA is at the forefront of offering assistance to athletes engaging in eSports, with no other similar organization being present currently. Amar Ratnam, a former pro gamer, has been appointed to act as a liaison between the players and the industry.
Ritesh Nath, CEO & founder, EPWA comments: “The future of eSports in India is bright, especially due to the penetration of 4G and the subsequent surge in mobile gaming. Professional governance and structures are vital to the success of any sport; the absence of either in the eSports industry in India is one of the key drivers that led to the formation of eSports Players Welfare Association (EPWA). With the exponential increase in the number of eSports players (amateur and professional) and avenues for them to earn a living, EPWA will strive to ensure their rights are protected by defining industry norms, setting regulations, and assisting relevant stakeholders to form policies.”
Shivani Jha, director, EPWA, adds: “eSports has been in the limelight lately with attention being drawn to it thanks to its inclusion as a medal event at the upcoming Asian Games in 2022 and potentially an Olympic nod as well. As wide as the gaming industry may be, absence of any regulations or stringent rules in eSports allows for exploitation of players. The top priority at EPWA will be to address player grievances regarding their legal obligations and contracts. EPWA will also work to bridge the awareness gap that exists in the country by educating the industry about the latest eSports rules and regulations from India and around the globe.”
