New Delhi: Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has introduced the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, on 20 August in the Parliament during the ongoing Monsoon Session.
According to the government, the bill aimed at making India a global hub for creative game development while curbing harmful online money games. It seeks to strike a balance between fostering innovation in e-sports and social gaming and safeguarding citizens from financial and psychological risks.
The Bill formally recognises e-sports as a competitive sport, with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports set to frame guidelines, establish training academies and integrate e-sports into national sports policy. It also promotes the development of online social and educational games, empowering the government to register and categorise safe, age-appropriate platforms that foster digital literacy, skills and cultural values.
At the same time, the legislation enforces a blanket ban on online money games, including betting, gambling, fantasy sports, poker, rummy and online lotteries. It prohibits their operation, promotion and financial transactions, with penalties of up to three years in prison and fines reaching Rs 1 crore for violations. Repeat offenders face stricter punishments, while companies facilitating such activities may also be held liable.
To ensure compliance, the Bill provides for the establishment of a national-level Online Gaming Authority to oversee categorisation of games, handle grievances and issue guidelines. Authorities will also have powers to block unlawful platforms and conduct investigations under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
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