Junglee Games India has onboarded Anil Kapoor for Junglee Poker’s new campaign ‘Apne type ke log’.
 

The campaign, aims to break stereotypes surrounding poker by showcasing it as a game accessible to everyone, irrespective of age, gender, or background. 

“We are thrilled to partner with Anil Kapoor and launch the ‘Apne type ke log’ campaign. We are confident that his involvement will lend unparalleled credibility, a lively, charismatic energy, and his trademark ‘Jhakaas’ attitude to deliver our messaging. The idea is to show the audience how Junglee Poker is an inclusive game, built for people from all walks of life and skill sets in a healthy environment. We will continue to amplify our values of trust and responsible gaming, with an aim to make a significant impact in the gaming industry,” said Bharat Bhatia, chief marketing officer at Junglee Games.


“I am eager to be part of this journey and showcase how it is an all-embracing gaming adventure for players of every stripe. The tagline ‘Apne Type Ke Log’ resonates with me as well and this collaboration promises to be a blast. It’s commendable to see how Junglee Poker aims to redefine the perception of poker and promote responsible gaming,” said the actor.

The TVC has been conceptualised by Junglee Games and directed by Abhinay Deo. Production for the same has been done by Ramesh Deo Productions.

Junglee Poker partners with Anil Kapoor for new campaign

The TVC has been conceptualised by Junglee Games and directed by Abhinay Deo. Production for the same has been done by Ramesh Deo Productions.

National Broadcast Policy: Level playing field or stifling growth? The OTT vs DTH debate in India's content market

OpenAI likely to announce its Google search competitor on May 13

Buffalo Soldiers appoints Niladri Datta as senior advisor- business and growth

NDTV posts Rs 21.4 crore loss in 2023 after profit in 2022

Boldfit unveils new logo

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Representational image via Unsplash

Zee-Sony merger saga ends: Timeline of the failed merger

Why are Indian brands advertising in NYC's Times Square?

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Advertising is in the position where tobacco was: IPG's Arun Kumar 

Biz Moves: Interactive Avenues, Verve Media, Foxymoron and Grapes

There is an opportunity for building a better agency, not just a different one: Manja's Prajato Guha

Zupee’s Dilsher Malhi on responsible gaming, Ludo in the digital age and more

National Technology Day: Industry experts share views on the role technology is playing in marketing

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Attention is the most valuable currency that you have and you must spend it wisely: Godrej Interio’s Sumeet Bhojani

Piyush Pandey

Adtech regulation a priority for Modi govt in third term: MoS Rajeev Chandrasekhar

Credibility of news and platforms are as important as monetisation challenges: Anurag Thakur

HUL: Meet the leaders who have emerged from "The CEO Factory"

Punit Goenka addresses Zee employees; ensures no layoffs due to failed merger

Disney's strategic sale to Viacom18 set to boost market share to 40 percent

The Leader's Edge: Storyboard18 in conversation with leaders, decision makers and disruptors

Nobody’s Perfect Retro Porsche Ad

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Shahid Kapoor And Varun Ganjoo Speaks On PokerBaazi's Campaign

In conversation with IHCL’s Puneet Chhatwal & GroupM’s Kate Scott-Dawkins

Why are brands including e-sports in their sports marketing itinerary?

Storyboard18 x The English Nut: How to pronounce these 10 brand names

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In conversation with VMLY&R’s Hari Ramanathan

Firstpost has issued an alert about fraudulent ads involving the misuse of the name and image of its Managing Editor, Palki Sharma by cyber criminals. Individuals have been deceived through false ads on social media, particularly Facebook and Instagram, claiming to offer stock market courses by Palki Sharma.

Bringing attention to the false ads, Palki Sharma posted on X and alerted the users. In her post, she said, “This is a scam. A lot of you have shared these posts with me in the last few days. (Thanks for flagging!) My photos are being misused and such fraudulent ads are being circulated on Facebook. Despite complaints, @Meta has not taken action.”

Palki Sharma does not provide any investment advice or stock market course through WhatsApp or any other social media platform. She is not associated with any group offering stock recommendations or financial advice, and people are urged to exercise caution and report any suspicious activities immediately.

To avoid falling victim to such fraud, it is recommended to ignore advice from unknown sources, verify information from official sources, and maintain secure practices for personal and financial transactions. It is important not to trust any information shared through unofficial channels and sources. In case of any suspicious activity, Firstpost advises people to report it to the appropriate authorities immediately.

For further information and to report fraudulent activities, please visit <a href="https://www.cybercrime.gov.in/">www.cybercrime.gov.in</a> or contact the helpline number – 1930 or the cyber cell of the local police department.

Link to the post on X: <blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This is a scam. A lot of you have shared these posts with me in the last few days. (Thanks for flagging!) My photos are being misused and such fraudulent ads are being circulated on Facebook. Despite complaints, <a href="https://twitter.com/Meta?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Meta</a> has not taken action. <a href="https://t.co/B5zkQkDwGH">pic.twitter.com/B5zkQkDwGH</a>&mdash; Palki Sharma (@palkisu) <a href="https://twitter.com/palkisu/status/1787546496956596362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Scam alert! Fake ads impersonating Palki Sharma of Firstpost

Games24x7 announced the elevation of Tridib Mukherjee to the position of Chief Data Science & AI Officer. In his new role, Tridib will continue to drive Games24x7's data-centric approach, leveraging his extensive expertise in data science and artificial intelligence to drive innovation and enhance user experiences.

Having served as the Vice President of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at Games24x7 for over six years, Tridib played a pivotal role in implementing cutting-edge algorithms and AI-driven solutions that propelled Games24x7 to the forefront of the online gaming industry. Tridib will continue to spearhead data science & AI teams and enable product teams to create personalized and engaging experiences for players.

Commenting on the announcement, Bhavin Pandya, Co-CEO and Co-founder, Games24x7 said, “Our scientific approach to running business really goes all the way back to our inception and has been the primary force behind our success. We are delighted to announce Tridib's promotion to Chief Data Science & AI Officer. With his expertise and the exceptional talent of our AI and data science team, which has grown significantly over the past five years, we've continuously raised the bar when it comes to offering personalised gameplay experiences including responsible gaming.  We are confident that the organization will continue this tradition of innovation under his leadership, and we wish him the very best as he spearheads our data-driven journey to new heights.”

Tridib Mukherjee, now the Chief Data Science & AI Officer, Games24x7 said, “At Games24x7, we have always worked for the players and our operating ethos of 'Science of Gaming' has been the guiding principle behind every decision we make. Over the past six years, I've had the privilege of working alongside an incredibly talented team dedicated to advancing the frontiers of gaming through the lens of data science. And I look forward to many more years of collaboration and innovation as we continue our mission of leveraging technology to create even more engaging and enjoyable gaming experiences for our users.”

With over two decades of experience and a distinguished academic background, including a PhD in Computer Science & Engineering from Arizona State University, Tridib Mukherjee is uniquely positioned to lead Games24x7's data science initiatives to new heights. His prolific record as an author of over 70 research papers and multiple patents in AI and data sciences reflects his deep expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, and more. The talented team at Games24x7, along with Tridib's leadership and award-winning contributions, positions the organization to shape the future direction of the industry and deliver unparalleled gaming experiences to its users.

Games24x7 elevates Tridib Mukherjee as Chief Data Science & AI Officer

Unilever's Chief People and Transformation Officer, Nitin Paranjpe, took to LinkedIn to share a story about defying self-doubt and finding unexpected joys in embracing a personal challenge, even if the results are... well, let's just say entertaining.


“I am musically challenged. I struggle with rhythm; I don’t have any natural talent. Around twenty years ago, I decided to test this. I wanted to see, if you are challenged in a particular field, what can you do with effort and discipline,” he said in his post.


<iframe src="https://www.linkedin.com/embed/feed/update/urn:li:share:7191801373401792512" height="747" width="504" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" title="Embedded post"></iframe>


Almost 20 years ago Paranjpe found someone to teach him the keyboard. “If you want to know the outcome of that study, I still play badly. That’s how I challenged I am,” he said.


But then it was still a win for him because he always thought he wouldn't be able to string together a tune even if he was given the notes. Paranjpe goes on about his tryst with music. 


He didn’t find a lot of success in his learning story but definitely found joy. “Anyone who listens to me today could well say-My god! After so many years you still suck,” he said.


And to that he’d say, “Yeah, and that's okay. You have no idea where I was compared to where I am now.” Paranjpe ended the note with a profound thought. He said, “What started off purely as a challenge has turned out to be a lot of fun.”


Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/hul-appoints-vipul-mathur-as-executive-director-personal-care-takes-over-from-madhusudhan-rao-30619.htm">HUL appoints Vipul Mathur as Executive Director, Personal Care</a>

Unilever’s Nitin Paranjpe shares an endearing story about his lack of musical talent

The marketing industry plays a dynamic role in influencing consumer behaviour and fostering economic growth. After the grand success of the first two editions of Storyboard18 Visionaries, held in Gurugram and Bengaluru, the program is now gearing up to be in the city of marketing and creative excellence, Mumbai. 


The third edition of Visionaries to be held on Friday, April 26th will witness some of the biggest names in brand marketing come together to celebrate the brilliance of marketing mavens.


Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/sustainability-at-heart-and-purpose-defines-the-path-diageos-hina-nagarajan-24779.htm">Sustainability at heart and purpose defines the path: Diageo India's Hina Nagarajan</a> 


Storyboard18 Visionaries celebrates luminaries from the world of brands and marketing who have disrupted and revolutionised the way we approach media and advertising. The Visionaries is a one of its kind platform that presents opportunities for the sharpest minds in the business to convene, celebrate excellence and exchange ideas that power growth. It is a night of gala celebration shaping the future of marketing in India.


The city chapters of Visionaries aim to bring together meaningful conversations, spotlighting path-breaking achievements and future gazing strategies.


Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/storyboard18-visionaries-britannias-varun-berry-shares-leadership-lessons-24840.htm">Storyboard18 Visionaries: Britannia's Varun Berry shares leadership lessons</a> 


The Mumbai event promises to be an evening to remember, with the coming together of iconic leaders and new-age marketers. The event will feature a keynote address by Bharat Puri, CEO, Pidilite Industries and a special address by Santosh Iyer, MD and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India Pvt Ltd. The evening will spotlight leading marketers from a wide-range of brands including HDFC Bank, P&G, Mercedes, Hindustan Unilever, Visa, L'Oreal, Mondelez, Spotify, UltraTech and Mahindra Group, among others. It will also feature engaging conversations with Nishant Kalra, Country Vice President, Salesforce, and MVS Murthy, CMO, Federal Bank, among others. The Visionaries programme for CXOs and executives brings a ringside view into ways of shaping consumer behaviour.


Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/quantum-brief/storyboard18-visionaries-bengaluru-chapter-blockbuster-celebration-of-marketing-brilliance-24771.htm">Storyboard18 Visionaries - Bengaluru chapter: Blockbuster celebration of marketing brilliance</a> 


The Visionaries programme for CXOs and executives provides unparalleled insights of how the best and brightest function in complex times. So, meet us at the point where cutting-edge ideas and visionary leaders who are changing our approach to media, marketing and advertising, converge to power transformation.


Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/the-visionaries">The Visionaries</a>

Storyboard18 Visionaries Mumbai Edition is here!: Join the celebration of marketing mavens

The Derma Co., an active ingredient backed skincare brand from Honasa Consumer Limited, marked a milestone of achieving an annual revenue rate of INR 500 crore. "This achievement underscores Honasa Consumers’ capabilities to craft and scale new brands with strategic innovations, delivering exceptional skincare solutions to consumers across India," Honasa Consumer said in a statement. The milestone demonstrate the strength of the brand's on-trend, data-based innovation strategy, the company stated. 

Its focus on leveraging data for product innovation and responding swiftly to emerging trends continues to be a cornerstone of the strategy, the company added. 

Commenting on this milestone, Varun Alagh, Co-Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Honasa Consumer Limited, says “The Derma Co.'s remarkable achievement of INR 500 crore annual run rate is a strong testament to our strategic brand-building approach at Honasa Consumer Limited. Our success is an output of in-depth consumer study of the evolving consumer demands and being able to innovate swiftly to deliver differentiated propositions to our consumers. This focus on excellence has helped us set new benchmarks across the active ingredient-based skincare segment. At Honasa, we are committed to continue our quest towards fueling our innovations and offer brands that serve the evolving consumer demands.”

Last month, Honasa Consumer Limited, the parent of Mamaearth, also launched ‘Staze’, a colour cosmetic line in a bid to enter the segment currently dominated by the likes of L'Oreal, Lakme, Sugar. “Staze is poised to carve its niche with a distinct emphasis on performance and innovation. We firmly believe that Gen Z consumers, who are seeking value and innovation, and Staze is uniquely positioned to meet and exceed their expectations", said Ghazal Alagh, Chief Innovation Officer, Honasa Consumer Ltd.

Varun Alagh added, “Honasa has always been at the forefront of innovation and being the pioneers in the BPC industry, we recognised a vital opportunity to address the burgeoning demand for innovative yet accessible colour cosmetics. And with the colour cosmetics segment boasting a remarkable CAGR of 12 percent and a substantial size of Rs 15,000 crore, it became evident that there was a gap in the market. These factors paved the way for Staze…”



Mamaearth-maker Honasa Consumer's second brand, The Derma Co., enters the Rs 500 crore ARR club

For Nidhi Mehta, director - finance, GOZOOP Group, Chief Financial Officers’ role extends beyond traditional finance boundaries. They are responsible for the finance and accounting professionals who perform operational functions and services in a strategic advisory role to the CEO and the rest of the C-suite peers. 


In a conversation with Storyboard18, she added, “A CFO's role commands a lot of respect in the ad agency as they advise other department heads, assist them in maximising revenues and controlling expenses without sacrificing customer needs and the agency's reputation.”


Edited Excerpts


Tell us about your career trajectory and journey. Where and how you started and what got you here.


I am a chartered accountant by profession. Post my three-year article ship, this is my first corporate job at GOZOOP Group. Years back I had not heard of GOZOOP but there was definitely a vibe when I entered the office for an interview. 


Digital Marketing was a thriving industry then and the core management at GOZOOP was impressive. The job profile offered was perfect and hence, there were no second thoughts. It's been years since that decision and since then there has been no looking back. 


What led you to join the advertising agency ecosystem in finance? What were your initial impressions and thoughts of the ad agency business? 


Advertising is always an exciting industry. In this new emerging era, where there is a wave of entrepreneurship and brand building, marketing today plays the most pivotal role for any new business start-up. Digital marketing helps thousands of new business entrepreneurs push boundaries and drive impact. 


How has the role of a CFO in an ad agency changed over the years? What does the job entail today? Where have you seen the biggest changes in what the role and function mean to the business? 


The CFO's role is extending beyond traditional finance boundaries and an increasing number of finance leaders view it as a pathway to the CEO position. The modern CFO is aspirational. 


Once mere observers in the boardroom, they are now crafting long-term strategies that ensure organisational stability. They are integral members of the top executive team, possessing a profound understanding of the company's vision. 


How do other departments and functions in the agency view the role of the CFO and the finance function? 


A CFO's and finance team's role in an ad agency is viewed as the most challenging role as they oversee the company's financial activities. This includes being responsible for the finance and accounting professionals who perform operational functions and services in a strategic advisory role to the CEO and the rest of the C-suite peers. 


A CFO's role commands a lot of respect in the ad agency as they advise other department heads, assist them in maximising revenues and controlling expenses without sacrificing customer needs and the agency's reputation.


How has the agency business model evolved? What have been the key changes and disruptions according to you and the impact of these shifts on the ad agency business model? 


Advertising agencies have evolved by leaps and bounds. It began with a simple printed ad in a newspaper and evolved into radio and television, commercials, billboards and digital advertising in the modern era. Advertising techniques have also become more sophisticated, incorporating psychology and consumer behaviour studies to create persuasive and effective campaigns.

 
Agencies are facing threats from all places. Is the business model future-ready? 


It is definitely future-ready as today the focus has shifted from the product to address consumer needs. With the emergence of new technologies and data-driven approaches, agencies can remain indispensable by tapping into this potential. 


However, with the pace of changes happening across the industry, agencies that do not develop a framework and plan for modernising their operational model that's inclusive of AI and technology will likely encounter increased challenges with both client and talent retention. 


From your observation, do you see any gender inequality or disparity in the finance function across levels? Agency leadership has traditionally been male dominated and advertising was seen as a boys club. Does that hold true for finance as well and the CFOs in advertising?


Not at all. The finance department at GOZOOP was and is always driven by women leadership. As far as the industry is concerned, there are several factors that lead to one's leadership goal.


What are the steps ad agencies must take to advance CFOs' role in advertising?


Agencies should enhance better communication between CFOs and other departmental heads. Regular meetings between them are needed to negotiate and discuss expenses and budgets that are aligned to the company's goals. 


A CFO should be made an integral part of all important decision-making of the agency as finance and marketers think and behave very differently. A combination of their brainstorming where marketers are driven by creativity and finance is driven by numbers and budgets could lead to some amazing outcomes for both the client and the agency.


What according to you are the biggest threats facing the advertising agency business today?

In-housing and talent retention are two of the biggest pressures that agencies face today. The threat remains that a brand will bring certain functions in-house, leaving agencies without that business. Brands are in-house because they believe they can do better work in a cheaper, faster and more transparent way. The other big issue is around both recruitment and retention of talent. There has always been volatility for agencies around talent. 


What are the trends you are currently witnessing in advertising, and what is the role of a CFO in such a scenario?


The rapid emergence of AI and the increasing role of technology within business operations is the current trend. CFOs should follow a test-and-learn approach where with their ability they are ready to take a smart risk and foresee how certain trends will impact their business. 


They should encourage the team to begin taking steps now to experiment with AI, explore how technology can drive operational value for the business, and help them understand how internal talent is spending their time and how to maximise their value for the business. 


Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/managing-your-mind-at-work-and-beyond-isnt-easy-it-takes-a-lot-of-maturity-and-wisdom-says-bajaj-autos-deepika-warrier-16913.htm">Managing your mind at work and beyond isn't easy; it takes a lot of maturity and wisdom, says Bajaj Auto’s Deepika Warrier</a>

CFOs breaking boundaries, crafting long-term strategies for organisational stability: Nidhi Mehta, GOZOOP Group

Anupam Mittal, the founder and CEO of People Group and Shaadi.com, and a prominent investor on Shark Tank India, is widely recognized for his strategic investments in renowned startups and unicorn companies such as Ola Cabs, BigBasket, Druva, among others. Mittal is also one of the leading voices to take on big tech firms like Google and Meta, slamming them for their "unfair" monopolistic practices in markets like India. 

On April 9, Meta "arbitrarily" disabled his company's account, prompting Mittal to call out the Mark Zuckerberg-led company on social media. Mittal also tagged Meta's India operations' head Sandhya Devanathan in the post. 

A frustrated Mittal said, "So, shockingly our Meta account was arbitrarily disabled this morning with nobody in the know or able to help, even at our scale. This is the dysfunction of Big Tech & monopolies, something hashtag#cci must take note of. Sandhya Devanathan" 

Netizens chimed in with sympathies and suggestions. Relating to Mittal's frustration users said Meta is "only sale no support" while some urged Mittal to assemble all the Sharks and create their own Made-in-India social media platform like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. 

When Mittal took on Google 

On March 1, Google announced it would remove apps from 10 Indian developers, including Shaadi.com, Naukri.com, jeevansathi.com, and Bharat Matrimony, from its Play Store in India for non-compliance with its billing policies. Among the most prominent voices that spoke out against Google's practices, was Anupam Mittal. 

“Today is a dark day for India Internet,” Mittal said as he came out hitting hard against Google’s action of delisting Indian apps. 

Mittal wrote on X, “Google has delisted major apps from its app store even though legal hearings are underway @CCI_India & @indSupremeCourt Their false narratives & audacity show they have little regard for India. Make no mistake - this is the new Digital East India Co and this #Lagaan must be stopped! Pls RT and #SaveOurStartups”.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/anupam-mittal-asks-is-google-evil-as-the-battle-between-google-and-indian-app-developers-rages-on-25363.htm">Read more: Anupam Mittal asks, "Is Google evil?", as the battle between Google and Indian app developers rages on</a>

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/interactive-avenues-anupam-mittals-first-investment-as-an-angel-investor-25997.htm">Read more: Interactive Avenues: Anupam Mittal’s first investment as an angel investor</a>

Angry Mittal?: Anupam Mittal "shocked" after Meta disables his company's account

DTDC Express Ltd., a leading express logistics provider in India has elevated Abhishek Chakraborty as its Chief Executive Officer. In his new role, Chakraborty will continue to propel DTDC forward, solidifying its position as a front-runner in the logistics industry with the aim to drive substantial growth and innovation for the company.

Chakraborty said: “Encapsulating our direction of “Building a NextGen DTDC for GenNext DTDCians”,... together we will continue to foster a culture of shared success and excellence.”

Before assuming the role of CEO, Chakraborty led DTDC as Executive Director for 15 years. He played a pivotal role in establishing a strategic partnership between DTDC and Geopost (owned by La Poste). He also spearheaded the DTDC and Amarex partnership and introduced many initiatives like launching the MyDTDC app and introducing DTDCShipAssure™, DTDC’s 100 percent money-back guarantee service that enabled the company to achieve new heights. His strategic leadership expanded the company’s network to 16,000+ partners, serving 96 percent of India’s population and the larger South Asian diaspora globally.

DTDC operates India’s largest physically accessible express logistics Network and has over 16,000+ exclusive channel partners that contribute to its sales and service capabilities.

DTDC Express promotes Abhishek Chakraborty to the CEO position

MakeMyTrip has achieved a significant milestone in its two-decade-long journey by becoming accessible worldwide, the company said in an announcement this week. 

MakeMyTrip has now expanded its reach to over 150 countries, including major travel markets such as the UK, Germany, Japan, Italy, France, and others, besides the US and the UAE. 

“The rigorous standards of compliance and commitment to data protection we have in place for our Indian business helped us transition smoothly towards stringent international compliances,” said Rajesh Magow, co-founder and chief executive officer of MakeMyTrip.

“We are indebted to the trust and affection that we have received from Indian travelers for over two decades and continue to hold ourselves to higher standards and standard operating procedures (SOPs) on a regular basis. Our decision to make MakeMyTrip accessible globally is a result of this very goal – testing our processes against rigorous protocols across the world to enable our travelers to book or modify their travel purchases on the platform without any roadblocks wherever they are geographically,” he said.

MakeMyTrip said the platform has also ensured compliance with various international regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), to accomplish this expansion.

Magow added, “Our global accessibility will help us reach the vast Indian diaspora. Importantly, this expansion will enable us to cater to a broader audience, fostering increased inbound travel to India. Our extensive coverage, offering accommodations in more than 2,000 cities, will assist international tourists in discovering the hidden gems of India.”




MakeMyTrip CEO on expansion in 150 countries: Global accessibility will help MMT reach Indian diaspora

When Storyboard18 asked Maruti Suzuki's Shashank Srivastava what interests him outside of work, he said, "My hobby is chess, and I make it a point to keep up with the latest trends in the game." He told us, "It not only helps me focus on something other than work, but also, chess is a great game which involves a lot of planning. It involves a lot of discipline." Discipline and planning are what he seems to have perfected at Maruti Suzuki India, a firm known for its meticulous planning and emphasis on discipline given the brand's Japanese lineage and influence. 

 
On March 27, the auto major elevated Shashank Srivastava from the position of Head – Marketing and Sales to ‘Member Executive Committee’. In many ways, it's an end of an era in the marketing world, as Srivastava moves on from his current role and into an advisory one as part of a core leadership group. 


Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/watch-listen/media-dialogues-with-storyboard18-maintaining-continuity-in-change-maruti-suzuki-mindshare-drive-ahead-19528.htm">Media Dialogues with Storyboard18: Maintaining continuity In change, Maruti-Suzuki & Mindshare drive ahead</a>


A Maruti lifer, Srivastava is a leading figure in the Indian business and marketing world, having led the country's top carmaker as its sales and marketing boss for several years. Srivastava started his career at the automotive company in 1989. It was his first job after graduating from Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIM-A). Holding a bachelor's degree in telecommunication and electronics engineering from National Institute of Technology (NIT), Bhopal, he joined IIM-A in 1987. Despite having offers from the Asian Paints and Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Srivastava was very clear that his path lay in the automotive industry and with Maruti Suzuki. 


Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/maruti-suzukis-shashank-srivastava-it-is-crucial-to-celebrate-achievements-to-foster-a-positive-work-environment-15928.htm">Maruti Suzuki’s Shashank Srivastava: It is crucial to celebrate achievements to foster a positive work environment</a> 


Srivastava, the marketing maven who is an avid reader of books on science and especially quantum physics, has been a strong proponent for constant learning and adapting with the times. He emphasised empowering his team members through collaboration and communication. “My intention is to help others succeed and become leaders in their own right. True leadership is, therefore, not about being in charge but inspiring and guiding others to achieve their full potential,” he said. It is about creating a culture of continuous learning and development; “When we invest in our colleagues’ growth and development, we develop better leaders and build a more substantial organisation.” 


In a previous conversation with Storyboard18, when asked about a work and life hack he swears by, Srivastava had said,"Time boxing is a very powerful productive technique. What you do is you schedule specific blocks of time for different tasks. That's something which optimises efficiency. For a life hack, I would say, practice gratitude. It significantly improves one's overall well-being. If one is grateful for what you have, big or small, it helps you appreciate the good things, and makes you feel better." 


Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/marutis-shashank-srivastava-on-why-indians-no-longer-need-to-kick-tyres-or-smell-leather-to-buy-cars-4932.htm">Maruti’s Shashank Srivastava on why Indians no longer need to kick tyres or smell leather to buy cars</a>

Maruti's former marketing boss Shashank Srivastava keeps this quote in his diary

In a strategic move, Pravis, established by ex-Momspresso founder Vishal Gupta and Prashant Sinha, has acquired a significant stake in StreamO, an ad-tech gaming platform. This venture is set to explore the substantial business potential of the rapidly growing gaming sector, particularly in engaging the GenZ demographic.

StreamO, founded by Tushaar Garg in 2021, is at the forefront of connecting brands with gamers and their live watchers, reaching a vast network of over 20,000 gamers and a GenZ subscriber base exceeding 300 million. With global game video content on platforms like YouTube reaching 120 billion hours of viewership in 2022 and India's consumption rates doubling the global average, the opportunities for brand engagement are immense and largely untapped, highlighted the company.

Following their exit from Momspresso to Honasa (Mamaearth), Gupta and Sinha leveraged their experience to create Pravis, a growth marketing firm. Now, as co-founders of StreamO, they are poised to bring their deep insights from building internet products and influencer relationships to the forefront of the gaming industry, stated the company.

Vishal Gupta, co-founder of StreamO, comments on the unique challenge presented by the GenZ audience, "Gaming presents an unprecedented opportunity to reach the GenZ audience, a demographic that is notoriously difficult to engage through traditional media. With StreamO, we are positioned uniquely to leverage the explosive growth of live gaming platforms and the passionate GenZ communities they nurture. Tushaar is one of the thought leaders in the gaming space in India and we are delighted to partner with him in this journey."


Prashant Sinha, also co-founder, reflects on his experience and future plans, "Drawing from our learnings from Momspresso's MyMoney platform, we understand the dynamics of micro-influencer and brand interactions very well. With StreamO, we aim to apply these insights to expand and deepen our brand engagements by 10X in the next 12 months. StreamO's innovative methods are in perfect alignment with Pravis’ vision for the future of this industry and we are excited about the possibilities this partnership with Tushaar opens up."


Tushaar Garg, founder and chief executive officer of StreamO, highlights the company’s achievements and upcoming goals, "StreamO has already set a benchmark in the gaming community by fostering authentic connections between brands and gamers. With the addition of Vishal and Prashant, we are excited to propel this success to new heights. Their expertise in influencer marketing and strategic brand partnerships will be instrumental in accelerating our growth and business."


Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/online-gaming-surpassed-filmed-entertainment-in-india-touched-rs-220-billion-in-2023-25500.htm">Online gaming surpassed filmed entertainment in India, touched Rs 220 billion in 2023</a>

Pravis acquires a stake in StreamO, an ad-tech gaming platform

The gaming industry pulsates with the energy of vibrant communities and gamers hailing from diverse backgrounds. Young demographics in regions like South Asia, the Middle East, and LATAM, fueled by a mobile gaming boom, represent a goldmine for brands seeking passionate and engaged audiences. But traditional
advertising, in this crowded arena, often struggles to forge a connection. Here's where fostering trust and commitment within micro-communities emerges as the ultimate game-changer for brand growth, and leveraging Web3 and blockchain technology can be the key to unlocking its full potential.

Take the example of a brand selling high-performance mobile gaming peripherals. Instead of a scattershot advertising approach, what if they built a thriving community of mobile esports enthusiasts? Within this space, players strategize, share tips and celebrate victories. This is where the brand steps in—not as a hawker, but as a trusted ally. By offering valuable insights and showcasing products designed for the specific needs of this micro-community, the brand fosters trust—the bedrock of a lasting relationship.

Gaming communities provide brands with a reach not limited by geographical boundaries — this presents a unique opportunity for brands. Engaging with these
micro-communities fosters a deeper understanding of gamer preferences and purchasing habits across demographics. This knowledge then fuels the creation of
targeted campaigns and products that resonate with a broader audience.

Here's where the magic happens. By nurturing a thriving micro-community, brands tap into the power of the network effect. As the community grows and thrives, it attracts even more members, further amplifying brand awareness and engagement. This creates a self-perpetuating flywheel – the more the community benefits from the brand, the more invested they become, leading to organic promotion and advocacy.

Community members become vocal supporters, sharing positive experiences and recommending products to their peers, further accelerating brand growth.
The future of community building in gaming lies in leveraging Web3 and blockchain technology. By default, gaming communities are driven by a collective of people, just like in blockchains and web3. By virtue of this similarity, it’s intuitive for the gaming community to rely on behaviours and tools that augment the collective ethos rather than a centralised ethos. By offering unique incentives and rewards through secure and transparent mechanisms, brands can further strengthen their commitment to the community. Exclusive in-game items represented as NFTs, or tournaments with on- chain prizes will serve as unique and personalised rewards. These newer avenues not only excite the community but also foster a sense of ownership and value within
the brand ecosystem.

While initial investments in community building may seem daunting, the return on investment (ROI) is immense in the long run. It&#39;s not just about immediate sales. By building a strong community, brands not only save on marketing costs but also drive retention and shoot up the lifetime value of a community member. Traditional advertising struggles to achieve this.

The gaming industry thrives on a sense of community. This approach not only drives sales but also cultivates dedicated brand advocates who communicate brand messages with unwavering commitment.

So here’s the winning formula for brands in this ever-evolving world of gaming— build genuine connections, create tailor-made experiences for micro-communities and use Web3 technology advantageously to achieve sustainable growth and imprint your presence in the hearts and minds of gamers.

The author of the piece is Ishank Gupta, Elder Member Council, Kratos Gaming Network. Views expressed are personal.

Forge new pacts: How community building and micro-communities drive growth in gaming

India is not exempt from the global trend of gaming becoming a legitimate industry. Over the years, analysts have observed a sharp increase in the number of gamers in the Indian market. It is also expected that by the year 2025, the value of the industry will be three times as to what it is today. India has always been about gaming. The unexpected surge in the gaming industry within the country took everyone by surprise. However, there were a lot of factors behind this surge including a young population, increase in the number of smartphone users and the pandemic. Online games became an important source of entertainment during the lockdown, therefore it can be said that the pandemic had the largest impact. 

The global gaming market is currently valued at over 245 billion, much more than movies and music industry. And the sheer size of the market tells us how many vast the opportunities are present. From being a developer to a marketeer, to being an esports athlete and beyond, the gaming industry offers a multitude of career opportunities in diverse fields. The range of roles is very vast. India has an advantage over other countries in terms of talent involved in gaming and is also well-equipped with the technological know-how. When it comes to animation and game development, India seems to have provided a sizable cost advantage as compared to other nations. 

Making a career out of gaming is a viable and rewarding endeavor, irrespective of your gaming experience or the skill sets that you bring. In this everchanging environment, women are not far away. Even they have joined the workforce, following their passion and aspiration. They are known to change the whole narrative of the gaming industry by becoming a part of this one upon a time - male dominated industry.

Career in the gaming industry does not only restrict itself to playing games. It is much more than that. There are a variety of roles that one can take if they are passionate about the gaming industry. A developer is known to help develop the application. The product managers help to ideate and strategize about the gaming product. The finance team helps to manage the budget and Profit and Loss (P&L). Operation team runs the day to day tasks. Marketeers, social media and community managers help to scale and promote the product. Networking helps to open up various possibilities in this field and also help in supporting the growth of the career. The roles are similar to any other category or any other traditional company and the opportunities to grow are endless today. 

Besides the above mentioned roles, a gaming industry also offers roles and opportunities like a content creator, streamer, an esports athlete and even a caster and much more. All it takes is passion unlike any other industry and the right set of guidance. There are multiple universities abroad and even a few in India offering various courses and specializations in the field of gaming. Success in the gaming industry is also dependent on ongoing learning. This is a rapidly growing industry. It is not only advantageous but also important to stay up to date with the latest technological innovations. 

Adopting a lifelong learning mindset is the key to success and makes one an indispensable resource in this ever-growing field of gaming. By accepting these challenges and seeing them as chances of personal development, anyone can prosper in this exciting and fast-paced sector. This rewarding and successful career path is available to everyone with a penchant for creativity, a love for gaming and the flexibility to learn and develop. The future appears to be bright for those who wish to enter the burgeoning gaming industry, given the rise and ongoing development of new game genres such as cloud and internet gaming. 

In conclusion, given the fastpaced development, financial stability, job security, the gaming industry appears to be a great choice for people looking for a career. 

The author of the article is Nauman Mulla, Co-Founder & COO, STAN, a gaming community startup. Views expressed are personal.

Booming gaming industry: Building a career in gaming

S8UL, an Esports organization has partnered with KRAFTON, the creators of the popular battle royale game - Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), for the official launch of their latest game, Bullet Echo India.

Bullet Echo India is a multiplayer PvP tactical top-down shooter game, that invites players to form teams, devise strategies, and engage in adrenaline-fueled battles to emerge as the last team standing, similar to a battle royale. 

S8UL's lineup of renowned creators, including Mortal, Scout, Regaltos, Snax, JokerKiHaveli, PayalGaming, KaashPlays, and others, will create engaging content for their YouTube audiences during the official launch of Bullet Echo India. This collab is a mark of how S8UL and KRAFTON are always working together for bringing more life to the gaming experience in India. 

They had also collaborated for the launch of ‘Road to Valor : Empires’ early last year. Lokesh Jain aka 8Bit Goldy, Co-Founder of S8UL, expressed his enthusiasm by stating, “We are delighted to partner with KRAFTON for the launch of Bullet Echo India, as this gives us another chance to bring new & enriching gaming experience to the community. With KRAFTON's expertise and our deep understanding of the Indian gaming community, we are confident that Bullet Echo India will excite players across the country. I also look forward to it opening new avenues for esports athletes trying to make a mark in the competitive landscape”

Developed by KRAFTON in collaboration with ZeptoLab, Bullet Echo India is designed to captivate the Indian gaming community. Since its soft launch on April 4, the game has rapidly ascended to the top of the charts on the Google Play Store, showcasing its immense popularity among Indian gamers.

“We are excited to join forces with S8UL for our Bullet Echo India. S8UL's innovative approach has consistently set them apart, and their synergy is perfectly aligned with KRAFTON to deliver an unparalleled gaming experience that fans have been eagerly anticipating,” said Anuj Sahani, India Publishing Advisor and Head of KRAFTON India Incubator Programme.

“The partnership between S8UL and KRAFTON for Bullet Echo India showcases our credibility and equity in the industry. As a player, I am particularly excited about the prospect of introducing Indian gamers to a unique gaming experience, offering a perfect blend of strategic gameplay and action-packed battles. I believe it is a must-play title for every gaming enthusiast and will make a significant impact in the Indian gaming market,” commented Tanmay Singh aka ScoutOP, an ex-Esports athlete who is currently a gaming creator of S8UL.

With S8UL’s Co-Founder Animesh Agarwal (8Bit Thug), alongside its creators PayalGaming, and Mortal recently engaging in a groundbreaking discussion with the honorable Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, about the Esports industry, the organization continues to make waves for the development of the community. Their partnership with KRAFTON serves as a testament to their efforts to propel the growth of the Esports sector in India.

According to the FICCI-EY report titled '#Reinvent: India’s media & entertainment sector is innovating for the future,' shooting games hold a prominent position in India, generating substantial in-app purchase revenues. Also, the rising popularity of gaming influencers has contributed to the expansion of the gaming ecosystem, attracting new cohorts of players.


S8UL partners with KRAFTON to launch multiplayer game Bullet Echo India

International Creators Day celebrated on April 23rd each year, honours individuals who create art, literature, technology, and facets of human endeavor through their creativity. Today, creators are shaping the world around us; these custodians of culture bring their unique insights into our lives in more ways than one. 

Payal Gaming aka Payal Dhare is one such creator. In March, this year, Dhare won the “Gaming Creator of the Year” award. Lat year, she won the Dynamic Gaming Creator of the Year award last year. She also received the title of Female Streamer of the Year. 

One often overlooked factor within the online gaming ecosystem in India is the statistics involving female gamers. A report that surveyed 2317 respondents found that almost 41 percent of the gamers in India were women. Notably, these gamers are not exclusively from the metro or Tier 1 Indian cities but from smaller Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. The online gaming space is also claimed by Indian women from smaller towns. In a chat with Storyboard18, Dhare talks about scarcity of female role models in the gaming industry and more.

First of all, how was it meeting with PM Narendra Modi? How do you think the government can help shape the gaming industry?

Meeting with PM Modi was an incredible honor and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It felt surreal to be in his presence and discuss prospects for female gamers in India which made my journey so much more worthwhile. I realised that he is a great listener, and perfectly paraphrased the difference between esports & gaming content creation, something we now hope everyone will be able to understand. His vision for game development in India around Indian culture, and environmental issues enabling the right infrastructure at the grassroots level and integrating esports into the educational curriculum across schools and colleges throughout the country is is something I felt very strongly about and I hope it helps take Indian games to the global stage.


Do you aspire to transition into entrepreneurship, following the footsteps of many creators who have ventured into business?

I have not mapped out any definitive long-term plans but I am open to embracing significant opportunities as they arise. Currently, I operate ThriftXPayal, my clothing thrift store, a venture I'm committed to sustaining. However, regardless of what else I pursue, I will always stay involved in gaming and content creation, as they are my true passions.

How do you currently monetize your content, and what strategies have been most effective for you in generating revenue?

Creators have diverse revenue streams that collectively ensure sustained viability of content creation as a career. There are various avenues to monetize your content, such as YouTube ad revenue, channel memberships, Super Chat, donations while streaming, merchandise sales, and brand collaborations. Brands, both endemic and non-endemic, are increasingly seeking collaborations with creators to reach their target audience, who faithfully follow our content and streams.

What are your future plans and aspirations in terms of expanding your brand and presence in the digital space?

Currently, my sole focus is on curating innovative and relatable content that contributes to the growth of my organization, S8UL. However, my ambition is to utilize my passion for gaming and content creation to make a positive impact in the digital sphere. I aim to address the scarcity of female role models in the gaming industry and inspire young girls to pursue their dreams of a full-time career in gaming and content creation.

What was YouTube's role in your journey as a creator?

YouTube offers creators an array of tools and features that streamline content creation and amplify visibility. It serves as a platform for breaking stereotypes and empowering female gamers like me to thrive in the traditionally male-dominated gaming industry. The introduction of games on the platform called 'YouTube Playables' widened avenues for gaming creators, enabling them to engage with a broader audience, including those not actively seeking gaming content but open to exploration within the platform. 

What would you like to advise to budding creators?

To aspiring creators, I advise embracing challenges as stepping stones to progress. Stay committed, consistent, and always be yourself, as authenticity connects with people. To fellow young women starting their creative journeys, stay courageous and resilient. With dedication and persistence, you can turn your dreams into realities.

Read More:<a href="http://storyboard18.com/gaming-news/41-percent-of-the-gamers-in-india-were-women-report-29415.htm" rel="noopener" target="_blank">41 percent of the gamers in India were women: Report</a>

Read More:<a href="http://storyboard18.com/gaming-news/nearly-50-percent-fall-within-the-age-bracket-of-18-to-30-years-in-gaming-29507.htm" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Nearly 50 percent fall within the age bracket of 18 to 30 years in gaming: Report</a>

International Creators Day: Payal Gaming on the scarcity of female role models in gaming industry

In terms of funding greener initiatives, a lot remains to be done in India. Playing for the Planet and UK Interactive Entertainment (UKIE) published a Green Games Guide, which addresses how gaming companies across the board can reduce their carbon footprint and collectively achieve their climate goals. The call for action highlights the importance for the industry to act together to meaningfully limit their emissions. Indian studios and large developers should start measuring their own carbon footprints, while simultaneously funding products, projects and initiatives that help the environment. 

One of the ways for the industry to do this would be by setting a common emissions commitment for 2030, adding “call to action” features to their games as well as participating in and sponsoring global climate events such as Conference of the Parties (COP), as per the India Gaming Report 2024 by Interactive Entertainment and Innovation Council and Winzo.

Read More:<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/online-gaming-contributes-to-3-7-percent-of-global-greenhouse-gas-emissions-report-29589.htm" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Online gaming contributes to 3.7 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions: Report</a>

To establish India as a global gaming superpower, it’s essential to support the Indian startups and companies to compete at the global level. As per the report, this support can come with a dedicated focus on IP creation and protection to ensure that innovative ideas are safeguarded. To unleash the full potential of India’s entrepreneurial talent, the nation must align with global standards in policy and framework. 

Providing incubation and accelerator programs for entrepreneurs is another critical component of this strategy that will offer them the resources and guidance needed to thrive in the competitive gaming industry. The talent pool, relentless innovation, increasing foreign investments, and a vibrant startup ecosystem indicates presence of a high potential sector. The right and progressive policy support can contribute to the India growth story and ensure that the country becomes a center of innovation and job creation for the global gaming industry.

Unlocking India’s gaming potential by investing in its workforce: Gaming has the potential to become India’s next growth frontier offering high employment opportunities for the youth. India can further unlock its vast gaming potential through strategic investment in workforce development. Consider this, despite being a nascent industry, the gaming ecosystem in India has shown appetite for innovation, job creation and attracting investments. The nation can identify and nurture individuals by introducing separate scholarship programs for skills that feed into the gaming ecosystem - designers, developers, cybersecurity specialists, among others. 

Furthermore, fostering knowledge transfer from the global gaming community through academia is crucial for staying updated with the industry trends. Vocational training programs and executive courses for the existing workforce can equip professionals with the skills needed for the industry’s rapid growth. Global gaming clusters in the US, China, Germany, and Australia, among others, were created and sustained through both public and private support for talent development. These measures can propel India into a prominent position on the global gaming stage, nurturing talent and innovation.

Read More:<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/online-gaming-market-ripe-for-innovation-fueled-by-youth-and-mobile-gaming-says-siddharth-patel-of-cvc-capital-partners-29516.htm" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Online gaming market ripe for innovation, fueled by youth and mobile gaming, says Siddharth Patel of CVC Capital Partners</a>


Promoting research & development: Given the immense job creation potential and contribution to economic activity by the online gaming industry, research and development (R&D) in gaming has started attracting attention from the Indian and global gaming ecosystem. Promotion of R&D in the field of gaming will embellish India’s role in the global gaming ecosystem. To accelerate this, India can establish specialized undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs focusing on game design, development, and technology. T

These programs will not only foster expertise in areas such as AI and 3D design but also provide a structured pathway for students to become specialists in these fields. Additionally, offering career guidance and recruitment support will ensure that these gaming experts find fulfilling and impactful roles in the ever evolving world of gaming. This can be achieved through already proposed Center of Excellence, state policies on AVGC, and close collaboration among industry, government, and academia.

Making India a global hub for investments in gaming: The emerging business models and a thriving gaming community is making India a global hub for investments in gaming. India’s growing presence in the sector will disrupt the global gaming ecosystem for good. To ensure that India continues to disrupt the global gaming market and attract investments, we need to strike a delicate balance between fiscal interests and responsible entrepreneurship in the country. 

In the years to come, enhanced innovation, job creation, and direct and indirect tax revenues can only be achieved through a conducive business friendly environment. Moreover, ensuring predictability in the long-term policy framework is essential, as it instils confidence in global investors and will encourage them to invest in India’s gaming industry. By offering an encourages policy environment, India can attract substantial investments and solidify its position as a major player in the global gaming arena.

Right tools to safeguard the interests of the youth: Safeguarding the youth in the digital age is paramount, and India must outline and enforce the delineation of responsibilities among stakeholders for their protection. To address this concern, modern and advanced provisions are imperative. 

India should develop robust regulations that align with contemporary challenges to ensure the protection of children and young people in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. These provisions should encompass online safety, digital literacy, and cybersecurity, reflecting the digital challenges and opportunities of today. By establishing a comprehensive framework, India can foster a safer and more secure environment for its youth, enabling them to explore the digital world with confidence and resilience

Read More:<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/nearly-50-percent-fall-within-the-age-bracket-of-18-to-30-years-in-gaming-29507.htm" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Nearly 50 percent fall within the age bracket of 18 to 30 years in gaming: Report</a>

Can India’s online gaming sector can realize potential with policy support?

The intersection of digital gaming and sustainability is gradually becoming an area of responsibility from an area of interest for gaming companies, developers, and gamers alike. Loosely dubbed as “internet pollution”, online gaming contributes to 3.7 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. That being said, the nascent nature of the online gaming sector gives it the opportunity to address these issues in the long run by starting early, contributing to the national targets, and setting formal emissions targets and climate goals, stated the India Gaming Report 2024 by Interactive Entertainment and Innovation Council and Winzo. It is also pertinent to note that such responsible standards for gaming can make the Indian gaming cluster more attractive for global consumers and investors alike.

Read More:<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/41-percent-of-the-gamers-in-india-were-women-report-29415.htm" rel="noopener" target="_blank">41 percent of the gamers in India were women: Report</a>

At the global level, agencies like the United Nations (UN) are leveraging the dynamic game community for initiatives like “Playing for the Planet Alliance”. Playing for the Planet is an alliance that supports the online gaming industry in taking action to reduce its environmental impact.

To combat their overall carbon emissions, the gaming community is focusing on transforming, both the game development process and game play, into a greener venture while also creating environmental awareness. Industry players such as Sony and Guerilla Games have started initiatives like “Plant and Play” wherein trees are planted as part of game achievements for games like “Horizon Forbidden West”.68 At the global level, agencies like the United Nations (UN) are also leveraging the dynamic game community for initiatives like “Playing for the Planet Alliance”. 

Playing for the Planet is an alliance that supports the online gaming industry in taking action to reduce its environmental impact. By joining the Alliance alongside the UN Environment Program (UNEP), gaming companies (console and online) and gaming studios have made specific and measurable commitments towards reducing carbon emissions, integrating green activations in games, and supporting the global environmental agenda. They aim to do this through coordinated action through annual events such as the Green Game Jam (GGJ), which brings together the gaming ecosystem to incorporate “green activations” within their games as part of fundraising and awareness.70 Such initiatives not only engage larger audiences and create awareness, but also offer a chance to explore new avenues of game development via “green nudges” as well.

Green Innovations in Game Development

Game design itself can also be a powerful tool to drive significant change at the intersection of gaming and sustainability. Alongside in-game based donations, companies can also aim to streamline their corporate funding to assist with climate sensitive initiatives. Industry actors such as Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo are aiming for ambitious environmental goals in order to address their carbon footprint. Sony is aiming for zero environmental footprint by 2050 whereas Microsoft is planning to be carbon negative by 2030.71 Studios are aiming to do this by implementing environmentally conscious products and services with regular monitoring and compliance with formal standards. Due to gaming’s (console and online) reliance on data centers which are known to be carbon intensive, the industry realizes the importance of coming up with innovative methods to reduce their carbon footprint.

In India, given the size of the online gaming industry, it is important for industry leaders to collaborate with each other and collectively address their carbon impact by streamlining investments in greener initiatives such as the GGJ. Additionally, players also need to be made aware of the issues of climate change. The way developers can address this is by creating environmentally focused games. One such 2D puzzle-based game is Samudra, which takes players across an adventure in a polluted sea to uncover truths about “surface-dweller” actions causing deepsea pollution.72 The game also offers opportunities to make offline contributions to various environmentally conscious causes and funds. This combination of in-game education coupled with offline donation practices makes the game an interactive yet impactful product that’s fun to play while creating positive change.

Gaming for Climate: Industry-Driven Initiatives

In terms of funding greener initiatives, a lot remains to be done in India. However, given the size of the industry and the diversity of online gaming companies and studios, the outlook is positive. Embracing global standards can be a good starting point for India. Playing for the Planet alongside UK Interactive Entertainment (UKIE) published a Green Games Guide which addresses how gaming companies across the board can reduce their environmental footprint and collectively address their climate goals. The call for action highlights the importance for the industry to act together to meaningfully address their emissions. Indian studios and large developers would do well to start measuring their own carbon footprints, while simultaneously funding products, projects and initiatives that help the environment. A great way for industry to do this would be to target a common emissions commitment by 2030, add “call to action” features to their games while also participating in and sponsoring global climate events such as Conference Of Parties (COP) for the climate agreements.

Read More:<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/indian-gamer-base-is-expected-to-rise-to-893-million-by-2028-report-29409.htm" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Indian gamer base is expected to rise to 893 million by 2028: Report</a>

Online gaming contributes to 3.7 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions: Report

The Indian gaming market is set to witness as many as 10 unicorns and 5 decacorns by 2028. The sector has already witnessed the successful listing of Nazara technologies and as many as 5 companies are IPO ready. 

India’s ascent as a preferred location for gaming companies and its emergence as a game export hub will contribute to the national economic growth. India’s large player base, skilled talent pool, robust legal regime for intellectual property (IP) protection, and government initiatives is making India the preferred hub of global gaming market. The Indian gaming industry comprises over 1400 gaming companies, including 500 gaming studios. The annual revenue for gaming is projected to reach $6 billion by 2028, stated the India Gaming Report 2024 by Interactive Entertainment and Innovation Council and Winzo.

"We perceive India’s online gaming market as ripe for innovation, fueled by its increasing youth population, rising penetration of the internet and a growing preference for mobile gaming. The rise of vernacular and culturally resonant content presents a significant opportunity for deeper market penetration," said Siddharth Patel Managing Partner, CVC Capital Partners.

India’s total mobile game downloads exceed the total downloads of the next two Markets – the US, Brazil – Put together.”14 India boasts a massive, engaged consumer base of ~568 million gamers.15 India is home to approximately 15,000 game developers and programmers.16 144 mn users paid for games in 2023 and the number of paying gamers is expected to reach 240 mn by 2028.


The exponential growth of India’s gaming industry is evident in the download statistics. In just four years, from 2019 to 2023, game downloads in India soared from 5.65 billion to a staggering 9.5 billion. This growth propelled India’s share of global game downloads to a substantial 16% in 2023, followed by Brazil and US with 4.5 billion (7.6% market share) and 4.4 billion (7.4% market share) downloads, respectively.

Over the coming years, online gaming in India will continue to benefit from the Government of India’s initiatives of ‘Make In India’, ‘Digital India’, and ‘Production-Linked Incentive’ schemes. The recommendations of the Government constituted Task Force on Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comic (AVGC) provide a conducive environment for the long-term growth of the online gaming industry. 

The key recommendations of the AVGC Task Force included 1) developing  domestic industry for global access (such as launch of national mission on AVGC-XR, ‘Create in India’ campaign, Establish a National Centre of Excellence) 2) Developing talent (such as leverage National  Education Policy, launch courses on AVGC-XR) 3) enhancing Technology  & Financial Viability for Indian AVGC Industry (such as leverage Start-up India, increase Ease of Doing Business) 4) Raising India’s soft  power through inclusive growth (such as target skilling and industry  outreach for youth in Tier 2 & 3 towns). 

Multiple states in India have either launched or are in the process of launching their respective state-level policies for the AVGC sector. Few states have even launched their own fund to promote the growth of this sector, specific courses for talent development, and have announced their own Centres of Excellence. 

This state level promotion of the sector comes on the back of Government of India’s focus on this sector through multiple interventions. The Central Government Task Force on AVGC catalyzed the state level awareness and support for this sector. The Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY)’s Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules for online gaming released in 2023 have also recognized the role of legitimate online gaming platforms to safeguard the interests of the users and lays out the legal pathway for long-term growth of the sector.


Online gaming market ripe for innovation, fueled by youth and mobile gaming, says Siddharth Patel of CVC Capital Partners

In India, the gamer population exhibits considerable diversity, characterized by a significant presence of female gamers and individuals from tier 2 to 5 cities. However, it is essential to note that gaming preferences vary across different user segments. Approximately 40 percent of the gaming populace in India comprises women, and this demographic demonstrates a predilection towards casual and hyper-casual gaming experiences. Until three years ago, only one in five gamers in India were women, stated the India Gaming Report 2024 by Interactive Entertainment and Innovation Council and Winzo.

The growing presence of women gamers indicate their emergent role in the digital space, access to smartphones, discretionary spending, and willingness to pay for entertainment purposes. Their growing presence in the online gaming space also reflects coming together of a community in the digital world for interactive entertainment. 

40 percent of all video game players are female, 77 percent of them playing at least once a day, 50 percent Video gamers are between the ages of 18 and 30, 72 percent prefer content consumption in regional languages, 55 percent of gamers reside in non metro cities, 45 percent Indians started playing games after pandemic

68 percent play for distraction, 66 percent for relaxation and destressing, 25 percent socialize with other gamers, 23 percent play for self expression and creativity, 21 percent for competition/thrill seeking, and 20 percent for earning money. 

How Often Does the Indian Gamer Play? 

40 percent of all video game players are female, 77 percent of them playing at least once a day. Among the gaming community, nearly 50 percent fall within the age bracket of 18 to 30 years. This segment exhibits a proclivity for mid-core and hardcore gaming genres, particularly those characterized by fast-paced gameplay such as shooting games. Conversely, about 30 percent of Indian gamers are aged between 31 and 45 years, and their gaming preferences lean towards strategy games. Furthermore, more than half, approximately 55 percent, of the Indian gaming audience resides in non-metro cities. This group demonstrates a strong affinity for culturally relevant and vernacular games, reflecting their unique gaming preferences.

Nearly 50 percent fall within the age bracket of 18 to 30 years in gaming: Report

The online gaming sector in India and across the world has grown exponentially over the past few years. With over 3 billion online gaming players worldwide, it is pertinent to understand the positive externalities that arise out of such growth in online gaming, especially after the onset of Covid. Some of these impacts include reducing social isolation, a space for community building, especially for women gamers, and its role in enhancing research, education and skilling. 

Read More:<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/indian-gamer-base-is-expected-to-rise-to-893-million-by-2028-report-29409.htm" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Indian gamer base is expected to rise to 893 million by 2028: Report</a>

The Growing Impact of Female Gamers: One often overlooked factor within the online gaming ecosystem in India is the statistics involving female gamers. A report that surveyed 2317 respondents found that almost 41 percent of the gamers in India were women. Notably, these gamers are not exclusively from the metro or Tier 1 Indian cities but from smaller Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. The online gaming space is also claimed by Indian women from smaller towns. This trend impresses upon the need to undertake more initiatives to ensure that this space becomes truly inclusive, diverse, and safe for all demographics of gamers. Online gaming spaces are reflective of offline spaces and just as we need guardrails for offline interactions, we also need thoughtful interventions to make the online gaming space safe for all. Such interventions may also successfully contribute to better offline behaviour of gamers. As a country that’s working towards getting more women involved in STEM from an early age, gaming could provide a confidence and interest building environment for young women to cultivate their skills.

As per a report by Lumikai in 2022, about 80 percent of gamers in India showed a proclivity towards content based on Indian Intellectual Property (IP). This shows a significant shift of the Indian gamer to more culturally resonant characters, game design and narratives. The growing appetite for narratives, stories and characters set in India demands that Indian studios step up and develop more and more games that cater to the Indian audience while also appealing to the global online gaming community through their visuals and game design. With the boom of the online gaming sector in India, the Indian gaming industry is likely to see more of Indian mythology, folklore and characters come alive given the growing demand for such themes in India and abroad. 

The India Gaming Report 2024 by Interactive Entertainment and Innovation Council and Winzo shared that in the past, some of the most popular games have been set in the Western world and their narratives, designs and characters have emulated Western culture such as in Grand Theft Auto (GTA). Such games socialized the Western culture and further embellished the cities of Miami, New York, and Los Angeles in pop culture. Indian gaming studios such as Ayelet, Studio Sirah, Recreation Lab, and XSQUAD have also created games that are either set in Indian cities or use characters from Indian mythology such as Bheem and Arjun as part of the game narrative. Some games are also attempting to showcase the glory of previous empires from different regions of India. 

One such example is “The Unsung Empires: The Cholas”. Most Indians have grown up playing board games such as Ludo, Snakes and Ladders and Monopoly. There have also been games such as “taash”(cards) linked to Indian festivals or ancient epics.

Junglee Poker partners with Anil Kapoor for new campaign

The TVC has been conceptualised by Junglee Games and directed by Abhinay Deo. Production for the same has been done by Ramesh Deo Productions.

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