The Esports Federation of India (ESFI) has announced that Akash Rudro, known as "FGC Hero," from Kolkata, West Bengal, has emerged as the national champion in eFootball.
He will represent India in the eFootball Mobile category at the 6th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games - 2021 (AIMAG), scheduled to be held in Bangkok/Chonburi, Thailand, from November 21 to 30, 2024.

Akash "FGC Hero" Rudro triumphed in a fiercely contested battle, earning the berth to represent the country in the prestigious international event.
His remarkable, undefeated performance at the just concluded National Esports Championship 2024 (NESC24), saw him outshine top competitors such as MUJJICOOLYT, GodSyncYT, mrtomboyYT, JOYBOY_PES and LIARSFCYT7.
The NESC24 tournament was one of India's largest and most prestigious esports events. It served as the qualifying event for AIMAG and saw over 1,000 athletes from across the country competing.
This year's NESC24 focused exclusively on eFootball 2024 because other popular mobile titles like Arena of Valor (AOV) and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) remain banned in India. The event marked a significant milestone for India's esports community.
ESFI President Shri Vinod Tiwari commented on the response and the NESC24 selection, stating, "Akash's selection is a testament to the dedication and talent that exists within India's esports ecosystem.
"This milestone in eFootball Mobile adds to the legacy we are building, following our successes in Dota 2 at the Commonwealth Esports Games and League of Legends at the Asian Games. With the 6th AIMAG, we're set to showcase India's potential on the global stage, and we're already setting our sights on the Olympics Esports Games in 2025."
Looking ahead to the global stage, Akash shared his thoughts: "I've faced international players before, and their playstyle differs significantly from what I'm used to in India. They employ distinct strategies and formations, so I know I need to adapt and improve.
"The NESC24 has been a crucial steppingstone, providing me with valuable experience and confidence to represent India effectively and strive for a medal.
"I'm incredibly grateful to ESFI for their impeccable management of such a vast event with over 1,000 participants and countless matches which have been nothing short of being a memorable experience."
As a result of his victory at NESC24, Akash was crowned national champion. Alongside him were Akash_Bit & Pijush 'IUFC KREATOX' Majhi who secured second and third positions respectively in the National Championship.
The esports event at AIMAG will take place at Chonburi's Central Sriracha from November 23 to 28. It will feature three mobile titles. As India's sole representative in eFootball Mobile, Akash is set to make history by competing against Asia's best players.
This selection marks a significant step for Indian esports as it continues gaining recognition internationally. The nation's talents are ready to shine at AIMAG.