In a pioneering move to promote anime and manga culture in India, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, has joined forces with the Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI) to introduce the WAVES Anime & Manga Contest (WAM!). This initiative aims to tap into the rapidly growing interest in Japanese manga and anime among Indian audiences while fostering local talent.
Create in India Challenge – Season One
On August 22, 2024, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister for Railways, Information and Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, launched Season One of the Create in India Challenge in New Delhi. This challenge serves as a precursor to the upcoming WAVES Summit and aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Design in India, Design for the World,” as articulated during his 78th Independence Day address.
About WAM!
The WAM! initiative is focused on harnessing the growing popularity of Manga and Anime in India by creating localized versions tailored to appeal to global audiences. A key objective of the contest is to nurture and showcase Indian talent through a series of competitions, providing marketing support and potential publishing and distribution opportunities.
A Platform for Creative Expression
The initiative will organize state-level competitions leading to a major national event in Delhi, providing a robust platform for creative expression. The goal is to establish a space for Indian talent to gain international recognition and elevate the country’s presence in the anime and manga industry.
Amplifying Indian Talent for Global Exposure
In addition to leveraging the growing anime and manga trend in India, the WAM! initiative aims to amplify Indian creativity, providing opportunities for global visibility. By encouraging local talent, the contest will help foster growth in the anime and manga industry, further contributing to the creator economy.
The Growth of Anime in India
Over the past decade, Manga and Anime have gained immense popularity in India, driven by better accessibility, vibrant fan communities, and increasing cultural exchange. India has now become the second-largest anime market globally, following China, with an estimated 180 million anime fans. This massive fanbase is expected to contribute 60% of the global anime growth in the coming years, underscoring the immense potential of the Indian market.
