The Lok Sabha has passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill 2025, a key legislation designed to encourage e-sports and online social games while strictly regulating online money gaming. The bill also establishes an Online Gaming Authority to provide strategic guidance, policy coordination, and oversight across the gaming ecosystem.
The legislation aims to safeguard vulnerable groups, particularly youth, from the negative impacts of online money games, which include addiction, fraud, and financial loss. Under the law, participation in real-money online games is banned, with penalties reaching up to three years in prison and ₹1 crore in fines for first-time offenders. Repeat violations can result in three to five years of imprisonment and fines of up to ₹2 crore.
Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the rapid growth of digital technologies and online gaming in India, noting the government’s dual goal of promoting safe e-sports while addressing the risks posed by gambling-related gaming. Speaker Om Birla called the bill a crucial step toward citizen protection and a uniform regulatory framework for the sector.
This new legislation underscores India’s commitment to a safe, innovative, and thriving digital ecosystem, balancing the growth of the gaming industry with the protection of citizens and national security.
