Discover the IICT Esports Premier League: Powering PM Modi's Orange Economy Vision
- Saswata Mondal
- Feb 2
- 3 min read
The IICT Esports Premier League (IEPL) is making waves in India's gaming scene, blending high-octane competition with the government's push for a booming creative economy. Hosted by the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) in Mumbai, this annual event showcases student talent in esports while aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for India's "orange economy", the vibrant sector of animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics (AVGC).
Launched in its inaugural edition on February 8, 2026, the IEPL drew over 1,000 participants and spectators from more than 20 colleges, including Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology and VIT. It featured intense battles and innovative "phygital" experiences, marking a milestone in institutional esports.
What is the IICT Esports Premier League?
The IICT Esports Premier League is a structured, campus-focused tournament designed exclusively for college students, transforming IICT's Mumbai campus into a premier gaming arena. As a Government of India Centre of Excellence for AVGC-XR (extended reality), IICT backed by a ₹400 crore budget allocation, aims to bridge education, industry, and esports.
The first season combined national online qualifiers (January 30 to February 1, 2026) with LAN grand finals on February 8. Around 500 live attendees cheered as teams clashed, with prizes distributed in a grand ceremony attended by IICT CEO Dr. Vishwas Deoskar.
IICT plans to host the IEPL annually, expanding its role in skilling 2 million AVGC professionals by 2030.
Games Featured in the IICT Esports Premier League
The lineup caters to competitive pros and casual players:
Competitive Titles: BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India) and Valorant team-based showdowns with pro-level stakes.
Open-Access Formats: FIFA, Real Cricket 24, Hitwicket, Cosmic Race, and Beat Saber VR for broader participation.
Grand finals included Valorant at 11:00 AM and BGMI at 1:15 PM, streamed in highlights on YouTube.
How to Participate in Future IICT Esports Premier League Seasons ?
Ready to squad up? IEPL is open to college students nationwide (initially Mumbai & Pune focused, expanding soon).
Monitor Announcements: Follow IICT's official website, Instagram (@iict_official), and X (@TheIICT) for registration opens (e.g., Season 1 via Instagram links).
Register Online: Form teams (typically 4-5 players) during qualifiers. Free entry for verified students.
Qualify: Compete in online rounds (e.g., Jan 30-Feb 1 format).
LAN Finals: Top teams advance to IICT Mumbai for offline glory, travel support may be available.
No prior pro experience needed; it's about skill-building and fun. Contact IICT via their site for queries.
How to Spectate the IICT Esports Premier League?
Live On-Campus: Gates open at 9:00 AM. Free entry for students/visitors - expect crowds, interactive zones by Xwall.io, and celeb gamers like Gaurang Palav (GodLike Esports).
Online: Season 1 had YouTube highlights; future seasons may feature live streams on IICT channels or partners like Cineon Broadcast. Check socials for updates—no dedicated Twitch/YouTube live confirmed yet.
Prizes and Rewards at IICT Esports Premier League
Winners snag:
Cash Pools: Sponsored by Hitwicket and Cosmic Race (1st, 2nd, 3rd teams).
Gear & Merch: Gift vouchers, hardware from CyberPowerPC (USA).
Exposure: Networking with industry pros, AVGC career boosts.
Exact Season 1 winners announced post-ceremony, stay tuned to IICT socials.
IICT Esports Premier League Fuels India's Orange Economy
Backed by Union Budget 2026-27, IEPL supports PM Modi's "Create in India" mantra. IICT will deploy AVGC labs in 15,000 schools and 500 colleges, creating jobs in a $320B gaming market by 2026. Partners like KRAFTON elevate it further.
The IICT Esports Premier League isn't just gaming, it's India's creative future. Follow IICT for Season 2 alerts and level up your game!
Comments