India’s gaming industry is set for a major breakthrough as the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), the Interactive Entertainment and Innovation Council (IEIC), and WinZO Games join forces to launch Tech Triumph Season 3.

This initiative, part of the Create in India Challenge, aims to identify, mentor, and showcase India’s brightest gaming talents on international platforms, the company said in a press release.

Launched ahead of the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES), the program provides startups with unparalleled access to investment, mentorship, and global exposure. Selected participants will gain fully sponsored access to premier gaming events, including airfare, exhibition space, and networking opportunities with industry leaders and investors worldwide. The challenge is open to gaming studios, developers, esports organizations, and startups working in payments, security, engagement, monetization, and other gaming solutions, across PC, mobile, and console platforms.

The three-stage selection process will assess participants through an initial evaluation, followed by a final round where shortlisted candidates pitch their ideas to an expert panel. The winners will receive mentorship to refine their concepts before presenting them on an international stage. Additionally, selected students from diverse backgrounds will receive funding and mentorship to transform their innovative gaming ideas into impactful projects.

Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, MIB, emphasized that the Tech Triumph Program aligns with India’s mission to elevate its gaming and tech sector to global prominence. “Through WAVES and TTP, we are providing India’s emerging gaming startups with the resources and exposure they need to scale up globally. This initiative supports our ‘Create in India’ vision and unlocks new opportunities for our youth,” he stated.

Highlighting the program’s growing impact, Abhishek Malhotra, Advisor at IEIC, noted, “TTP is a reflection of India’s strength in the gaming ecosystem. It’s not just about showcasing talent; it’s about preparing our startups with funding, mentorship, and global insights to compete at the highest levels. With this season, we are enhancing support structures to create even more success stories.”

Co-founder of WinZO Games, Paavan Nanda, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that India’s gaming sector is poised for global leadership. “The TTP represents the intersection of ambition and innovation. At WinZO, we want Indian gaming startups to compete and win globally. By providing funding, mentorship, and global exposure, we’re setting the foundation for a world-class gaming industry that thrives on a ‘Create in India for the World’ philosophy,” he remarked.

Previous Tech Triumph winners have showcased their games at international events such as GDC 2024, Gamescom Germany, and the Brazil Gaming Show, receiving invaluable guidance from top industry and government leaders. Notable figures like Info Edge co-founder Sanjeev Bikhchandani, Kalaari Capital MD Rajesh Raju, and former Indian Ambassador to Brazil Suresh K Reddy have played a key role in mentoring participants.

With Season 3 expanding its reach, India’s AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics) and XR (Extended Reality) sectors are set to make an even bigger impact. The FICCI-EY report highlights gaming as the fastest-growing segment within India’s media and entertainment industry, reinforcing the sector’s economic potential.

As India strengthens its position as a global hub for gaming innovation, the Tech Triumph Program is paving the way for local developers to showcase their creativity, secure funding, and compete on the world stage. With applications open until February 20, 2025, this initiative marks a significant step toward making India a dominant force in gaming technology and intellectual property.