Online Gaming Bill 2025: Parliament Clears Law to Ban Real-Money Games, Promote E-Sports
India has taken a decisive step towards reshaping the online gaming industry. During the Monsoon Session of Parliament, both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha cleared the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The law seeks to ban real-money gaming and online betting while giving a boost to e-sports and casual online gaming.
What the Bill Says
The legislation, piloted by IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, makes it illegal to offer or facilitate online money-based games.
- Punishment: Up to 3 years in jail, a fine of ₹1 crore, or both.
- Advertising ban: Promotions and advertisements for online betting and money games are prohibited.
- Banking restrictions: Financial institutions are barred from processing payments linked to real-money games.
The Bill, however, encourages the growth of e-sports, learning platforms, and social gaming, which are seen as positive uses of digital gaming.
Why Now?
Minister Vaishnaw explained in Parliament that online money gaming has led many people to lose their savings and fall into debt.
- The government cited risks of addiction, money laundering, and even links to terrorism financing.
- Many platforms operate from offshore locations, escaping Indian laws and taxes, while posing challenges for law enforcement.
By introducing this legislation, the government aims to curb the negative impact of online betting while supporting the fast-growing, skill-based e-sports ecosystem.
Who Will Be Impacted?
India’s real-money gaming market was projected to touch $3.6 billion by 2029. The new law directly affects some of the biggest players in the space:
- Dream11 (valuation: $8 billion) – Popular for fantasy cricket, especially during IPL.
- Mobile Premier League (MPL) (valuation: $2.5 billion).
- My11Circle, Howzat, SG11 Fantasy, WinZO, RummyCulture, PokerBaazi, Games24x7, Junglee Games – all operate real-money formats like fantasy cricket, poker, and rummy.
The market reaction was immediate. Shares of Nazara Technologies, an investor in PokerBaazi, fell nearly 13% after the announcement. Casino operator Delta Corp also witnessed volatility.
What’s Next?
The Bill still requires the President’s approval before it becomes law. Once signed, India will officially ban online real-money gaming while establishing a framework to regulate e-sports and educational gaming platforms.
Conclusion
The Online Gaming Bill 2025 represents a big shift in India’s approach to digital gaming. On one hand, it protects citizens from the dangers of gambling addiction and financial loss; on the other, it opens doors for e-sports and casual gaming to grow as a safe, regulated industry.
The message is clear: online gaming is welcome, but betting is not.
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