The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill 2025 was approved in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday by a voice vote amid loud Opposition protests within hours of its introduction.
The Bill, moved by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for consideration and passing in the lower house, aims to promote and regulate the online gaming sector, including e-sports, educational games, and social gaming, while prohibiting online money games and related advertisements. It proposes a complete ban on offering, operating, or facilitating online money games, with penalties of up to Rs 1 crore and imprisonment of up to 3 years for offenders.
The government plans to establish a National e-Sports Authority to oversee and promote competitive gaming, with rules for fair play, standards, and compliance.
The legislation mandates registration of online social games with a new regulatory authority, which will maintain a list of approved games and issue guidelines on allowed formats. Celebrities and influencers promoting online money games will face penalties, including imprisonment of up to two years and fines of up to Rs 50 lakh.
The online gaming industry has grown significantly in India over the years engaging over 155 million Indians with real-money gaming sub-segments in 2024. However, concerns have been raised about the risks associated with online money gaming, including addiction, financial losses, and national security threats. The Bill seeks to recognize esports as a legitimate form of competitive sport in India and establish a dedicated framework for its promotion.
While aiming to facilitate development and distribution of safe, age-appropriate social and educational games, and support cultural and educational gaming content aligned with Indian values, the legislation protects youth and families from financial, psychological, and social harms associated with online money gaming.
The Bill is expected to enhance India’s role in global gaming exports, employment, and innovation. It would also encourage constructive participation through e-sports and skill-based digital games while also protecting families from predatory online money gaming practices.