Skillhub Online Games Federation (SOGF) Signs Historic Agreement with International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) to Revolutionize Online Gaming in India
New Delhi, September 2, 2024 – The Skillhub Online Games Federation (SOGF) has made a significant leap forward in the world of online gaming by signing a historic cooperation agreement with the International Mind Sports Association (IMSA). This landmark partnership is set to revolutionize the online gaming landscape across India and the sub-continent, creating a dynamic and vibrant ecosystem for gamers, developers, and enthusiasts under the expansive umbrella of Mind Games.
The momentous agreement was formalized at a prestigious board meeting held at Taj Palace, New Delhi, with several esteemed leaders from both organizations in attendance, including:
– Shri Shankar Aggarwal, President, SOGF
– Shri Gurusharan Singh, Secretary General, SOGF
– Shri Nandan Kumar Jha, Founder & Advisor, SOGF
– Shri Sibtain Baqri, CEO, SOGF
– Mr. Geoffery Borg, CEO, IMSA
Key Statements from the Dignitaries
This is a momentous step forward for online gaming in India and the surrounding region. Our collaboration with IMSA will not only enhance the gaming experience but also contribute to the global recognition of India’s growing prowess in eSports and online gaming. The governance framework we are establishing will ensure that our growth is sustainable, ethical, and inclusive. – Sh. Shankar Aggarwal, President, SOGF
Strategic Intent and Future Growth
As part of the agreement, SOGF has secured the rights to host online gaming events across India and the subcontinent, including Pakistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal. This expanded reach will allow SOGF to spearhead the development of the online gaming sector throughout the region, further enhancing its influence and presence on the global eSports stage.
This partnership with IMSA is a testament to our commitment to creating an ecosystem that supports innovation and offers new opportunities for everyone involved in online gaming. We believe that this agreement will bring significant benefits to gamers, developers, and stakeholders across the region. – Sh. Gurusharan Singh, Secretary General, SOGF
The board meeting also focused on the strategic intent of the agreement, with in-depth discussions around the establishment, governance, and ongoing development of the online gaming ecosystem. Both SOGF and IMSA expressed optimism that this partnership will create a robust platform for the future growth of the industry.
As SOGF continues to make significant strides in the online gaming world, this partnership with IMSA is seen as a milestone that will help cement India’s position on the global eSports map. The agreement is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey for the online gaming community in the region.
The signing of this agreement marks a significant milestone for India’s online gaming landscape. SOGF, led by Founder & Advisor Sh. Nandan Kumar Jha, is committed to positioning India as a global leader in online gaming, fostering a community recognized for innovation and excellence.
Sh. Sibtain Baqri, CEO of SOGF, emphasized the collaboration with IMSA as a crucial step toward building a robust ecosystem for online gaming in India and internationally.
Mr. Geoffery Borg, CEO of IMSA, expressed excitement for the partnership, highlighting its potential to drive innovation and development in the gaming industry across the region.
About SOGF
The Skillhub Online Games Federation (SOGF) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to transforming India’s online gaming sector into a global leader. SOGF is committed to promoting, regulating, and leading with integrity, aligned with the progressive guidelines of the IT Laws 2023. The Federation draws inspiration from the Olympic and Paralympic movements, fostering a culture of inclusivity, excellence, and fair play in the online gaming industry.
About IMSA
The International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) was founded in Berlin, Germany, in 2005, during the GAISF annual convention. IMSA works towards the recognition and development of mind sports globally, with a focus on enhancing education, life skills, and intelligence through the practice of these sports. IMSA is committed to fostering intellectual and emotional growth through mind sports, in liaison with global stakeholders including the IOC and SportAccord.
IMSA membership currently stands at 8: including the 4 founding international federations, World Bridge Federation (WBF), Fédération Mondiale du Jeu de Dames (FMJD), and Fédération Internationale des Échecs (FIDE) and International Go Federation (IGF),
The World Xiangqi Federation (WXF) was added in 2015, the Mahjong International League (MIL) in 2017, the Federation of Card Games (FCG) in 2018 and International eSports Federation in 2022. The World Poker Federation has also joined IMSA as an Observer.