Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra speaks during an event in Mahad on March 20, 2026
| Photo Credit: ANI
Mumbai and Maharashtra have the ecosystem, talent and scale to emerge as a global hub for the AVGC sector, it will be at the forefront of India’s orange economy, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said while inaugurating Gen O – Pixels & Play, a gaming festival organised in Mumbai on Friday (March 20, 2026) and highlighted that the esports is emerging as “viable” career option for youngster and does not remain mere entertainment.
“The gaming, digital content and the creator economy will be key pillars of Maharashtra’s next phase of economic growth,” said Mr. Fadnavis while responding the influencers attending the event.
He also pointed out that Chief Minister Office (CMO) will think of web-casting the decision process of the a few projects on live platform, saying “the operations of CMO is not drama but place where decisions are made and it cannot be shown live 24 hours, however, decision process of some projects can be shown live.”
According to EFlag Corp, who hosted the Gen O – Pixels & Play’ festival at the MMRDA Grounds, BKC, aims at strong policy push to position Maharashtra as a leader in the gaming, creator economy and digital infrastructure ecosystem. The festival will be hosted for four days bringing together participants from over 23 countries and features esports and gaming showcases, AVGC-XR innovations and others.
“The convergence of technology, creativity and entrepreneurship will unlock new economic opportunities, especially for India’s youth, reinforcing the importance of platforms like Gen O,” Mr. Fadnavis added.
Shripad Ashtekar, Founder, EFlag Corp, said “Gen O is designed to bring together creators, innovators and global stakeholders on one platform. India is at the cusp of becoming a global leader in the creative and digital economy.”
“The initiative brings together creators, startups, technologists and cultural practitioners to explore emerging opportunities within India’s Orange Economy, while showcasing the future of digital storytelling, immersive media, creator culture and next-generation entertainment industries,” as per the organisers.
Published – March 21, 2026 09:21 am IST
