Bihar is now set to make waves in the esports and gaming space. In a groundbreaking move, the Bihar State Sports Authority (BSSA) has not only organized India's first state-level esports tournament but has also committed to integrating esports into the school and college curriculum.

The year 2023 has marked a significant chapter for the Indian esports scene, witnessing pivotal events such as the relaunch of BGMI, high-profile tournaments like the India-Korea Invitational, and Godlike Esports' triumphant run at the Call of Duty Mobile World Championship. Notably, Bihar emerged as a front-runner by hosting the 1st Bihar Esports Open Championship Final on December 28, 2023, at the Patliputra Sports Complex in Patna.

The event showcased a diverse array of esports titles, including eChess, FIFA 23, BGMI, and Real Cricket 24. Esteemed personalities from the Indian esports community, such as Ammar 'Destro' Khan, a former Gladiator Esports player, graced the occasion. The Bihar Esports Championship Finals served as a testament to the growing influence of esports in the country.

Governments nationwide have been relatively slow in recognizing the burgeoning esports sector. However, BSSA's proactive approach, evident in the organization of a state-level championship, has the potential to propel the gaming industry forward. In December 2023, BSSA announced the Bihar Esports Open Championship, setting the stage for a comprehensive esports tournament.

The finale, held at the Patliputra Sports Complex, witnessed the participation of government dignitaries, including Shri Jitendra Kumar Rai, Minister of Art, Culture & Youth Department, Bihar, and I.P.S Raveendran Sankaran, Director General cum Chief Executive Officer of BSSA. Their presence underscored the government's growing interest in supporting the esports industry.

Shri Jitendra Kumar Rai, addressing the gathering, lauded the achievements of mobile gamers and expressed the government's commitment to bolstering the esports sector. Director General Raveendran Sankaran went a step further by announcing the introduction of esports policies by the Bihar Government, emphasizing the inclusion of esports in school and college curriculums.

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Beyond accolades, the Bihar Esports Championship Finals recognized the prowess of players and teams. Cash prizes were awarded to podium finishers, with the first-place recipient securing Rs. 20,000. The government's support extended beyond monetary rewards, promising free training to all winners in collaboration with the Bihar State Sports Authority.