India’s competitive gaming landscape has taken a major step forward with the announcement of the Indian Super Gaming League (ISGL), the country’s first franchise-based national esports competition. Organised by LetsGameNow (LGN), the league is set to host its inaugural season later this year, introducing a structured and professional framework aimed at strengthening the nation’s growing esports ecosystem.

The initiative marks a shift from standalone tournaments to a formal league-based structure built around permanent team ownership and a season-driven competitive format. The league will feature eight teams competing across five esports titles, with multi-city qualifiers planned ahead of the main season. Through this structure, ISGL aims to bring continuity, governance, and long-term stability to India’s rapidly expanding gaming sector.

A nationwide qualifier circuit will identify emerging talent from across the country, with city-level competitions leading up to a grand finale in Visakhapatnam (Vizag). The organisers say the initiative is designed to create a clear pathway for aspiring esports athletes, enabling them to compete within a structured environment while strengthening the broader competitive landscape.

The founding line-up includes participation from established sports franchises such as Mumbai City FC, FC Goa, Chennaiyin FC, Kerala Blasters FC, Inter Kashi, Puneri Paltan, Bangalore Bhargavas, and Andhra Agneyas. Their entry into esports reflects a growing convergence between traditional sports and digital competitive platforms, extending established sporting brands into the fast-evolving gaming arena.

The launch event in Mumbai on March 1 was attended by ISGL founders Santanu Basu and Gautam Badalia, Andhra Pradesh Sports Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy, along with actors and sports franchise stakeholders Ranbir Kapoor and Abhishek Bachchan, highlighting the growing interest of both public and private stakeholders in the sector.

Speaking on the development, LetsGameNow Co-Founder Gautam Badalia said India has the scale, talent, and passion for gaming but requires structured governance and continuity to ensure sustainable growth. He noted that ISGL is designed to provide professional standards and long-term opportunities, enabling Indian esports to evolve with the seriousness of mainstream sport.