India Ranks 8th in Gemini Esports Index 2026

India ranked 8th globally in the 2026 Gemini Esports Index, jumping from 10th place the previous year, driven by mobile gaming and the growth of grassroots esports tournaments.\n\nThe index scores countries on esports ecosystem health, including prize pools, event scale, grassroots programs, and viewership across platforms.\n\nIndia's climb is attributed to mobile-first gaming, big-ticket international events (like the proposed esports at the 2030 Asian Games), and increased brand sponsorships in titles such as BGMI and Kabaddi esports.\n\nKey GK point: India's push for esports recognition aligns with the government's "Make in India" push in gaming, and the Esports Federation of India's roadmap to the Olympics.