By Sagar V. Mankar 
In July 2022, India blocked access to the immensely popular battle royale game BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India) over data privacy concerns.
After nearly a year of negotiations between developer Krafton and the Indian government, BGMI finally made its triumphant return in May 2023.
BGMI’s Sudden Disappearance Stuns India’s Gaming Scene
BGMI was the India-specific version of Krafton’s PUBG Mobile.
At the time of its removal, BGMI was India’s top mobile esports, boasting over 100 million registered users.
The sudden ban shocked gamers and esports organizations who had come to depend on BGMI tournaments and streaming.
That was not the first time happened.
It was also banned along with TikTok in 2020 amid tensions with China.
With its servers localized in India, BGMI aimed to comply with data protection laws.
But regulators still had concerns.
Krafton Focuses on Government Engagement
Rather than protest publicly, Krafton and its India CEO Sean Hyunil Sohn worked behind the scenes to address the government’s issues.
This included:
- Moving BGMI data away from servers with Chinese connections
- Committing further investments in India
- Implementing time limits and other safeguards for players
Krafton refrained from antagonizing regulators.
Instead, Sohn focused on constructive engagement, with the goal of restoring BGMI under Krafton’s full control.
BGMI Returns After Meeting Conditions
In May 2023, BGMI finally resumed operations after meeting conditions set by the government.
Officials felt comfortable lifting the ban after observing Krafton’s changes and commitments over a 3-month evaluation period.
Exactly what modifications were made remains unclear.
But realigning data storage away from Chinese servers was likely key.
Krafton also began investing $150 million into Indian gaming startups.
BGMI Ecosystem Springs Back to Life
BGMI’s relaunch has re-energized India’s gaming and esports scene.
Top tournament organizers have resumed BGMI events, delivering a revenue boost.
Popular streamers returned to broadcasting BGMI as viewership spiked.
By July 2023, BGMI hit 30 million monthly active users – even higher than its pre-ban peak.
The BGMI ecosystem is thriving once again thanks to Krafton’s efforts.
Players hope regulators remain satisfied with the game’s safeguards and India-first focus.
BGMI Saga Highlights India’s Data Concerns
The BGMI saga underscores India’s strict data compliance expectations.
To operate in this crucial market, gaming firms must localize data infrastructure and assuage privacy concerns.
Krafton’s quiet cooperation with the government provided a blueprint for restoring access to a banned mobile game.
The company played a long game, focusing on engagement over public outcry.
One year after its disappearance, BGMI has returned home. But only through aligning with India’s data protection priorities.