ESFI Launches National Championship to Select India’s First Boys & Girls U18 Esports Squad for Asian Youth Games in Bahrain

In a landmark moment for Indian esports, the Esports Federation of India (ESFI) has unveiled the National Esports Championship (NESC) 2025 to select the country’s first-ever official under-18 esports squad—featuring equal representation of boys and girls—for the prestigious 3rd Asian Youth Games, scheduled to be held in Bahrain from October 22 to 31, 2025. The squad will comprise players born between 2007 and 2010 and above, marking a significant step toward nurturing young talent and promoting gender inclusivity on the international stage.

Recognised by the Olympic Council of Asia, the Asian Youth Games is one of the continent’s most respected multi-sport events, drawing elite U18 athletes from across Asia. This tournament will be a milestone in not only opening the doors for India’s youngest gaming talent to compete internationally but also marking a bold step toward gender-inclusive grassroots development in esports.

ESFI Launches National Championship to Select India’s First Boys & Girls U18 Esports Squad

India will field participants across six events—three each for boys and girls—in Rocket League (3v3), Street Fighter 6 (1v1), and eFootball (1v1). Matches will be held on PC and PlayStation. Only athletes born between 2007 and 2010 are eligible to register.

“This is a massive opportunity for young Indian gamers to showcase their skills on one of the most prestigious multi-sport stages. It is also the first time we are fielding an official U18 esports squad, making this a landmark moment for grassroots esports development in India. With equal participation for girls and boys, the championship reflects our commitment to building an inclusive and future-forward ecosystem. With esports now recognised as a medal event, we look forward to discovering fresh talent and sending a strong, diverse squad to Bahrain,” said Vinod Tiwari, President, Esports Federation of India (ESFI)

Registrations for NESC 2025 are open from June 28 to July 12. Winners of each title, along with the top two finishers in Street Fighter 6 and eFootball, will go on to represent India on the continental stage.
India’s participation at the Games is expected to further strengthen the country’s growing position in global esports and inspire more youth to pursue competitive gaming professionally.

With esports now recognised as a medal discipline, the stakes have never been higher for young Indian gamers.

Registration details are available here linktr.ee/esfindia and also on ESFI’s discord https://discord.gg/esfi, its mandatory for athletes to join ESFI discord for smooth communication.