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‘Game-changers: Top gaming startups revolutionising the industry’
Mumbai: India’s gaming landscape is undergoing transformative growth, expected to reach an estimated $7.5 billion by 2028, according to the State of India Gaming Report FY23. As the gaming fever continues to engage audiences, various startups are emerging as major players, introducing innovative concepts and experiences to the vibrant gaming community. As we approach National Startups Day on January 16th, let’s explore the top gaming startups reshaping the industry.
Hitwicket Superstars-
Hitwicket has redefined the cricket gaming experience, allowing users to play cricket as a team owner, coach and player. With engaging gameplay and a global user base, Hitwicket is making waves as the best-rated mobile cricket game in the gaming sphere.
Paytm First Games-
As an integral part of the Paytm ecosystem, Paytm First Games offers various gaming options, including fantasy sports, card games, and more. The platform has garnered widespread popularity for its seamless integration with the Paytm app and its easy-to-play yet fun games.
Loco Games-
Loco Games has carved its niche in the gaming industry with a focus on creating interactive and engaging live game shows. Users can participate in real-time quizzes and challenges, adding an exciting social element to gaming, making it one of the most compelling gaming startups.
Dream11-
Dream11 has revolutionised fantasy sports gaming in India, providing users with a platform to create their teams for various sports such as cricket, football, hockey and many more. The startup has gained immense popularity and has become synonymous with fantasy sports in the country.
Jet Synthesys-
Jet Synthesys as a key player in the gaming sector has offered cutting-edge solutions in game development and technology. Known for its innovation, Jet Synthesys brings a diverse portfolio of games such as Sachin Saga Cricket Champions, and Bajrangi Bhaijaan to the market, indulging gaming audiences worldwide.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
