India is set to implement a new regulatory framework for online gaming from May 1, following a notification by the Ministry of Electronics & IT. The rules aim to curb real-money gambling risks while bringing greater structure and oversight to the sector.
The framework stems from the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act 2025, passed by Parliament in August last year. It covers both real-money gaming and non-monetary games, with the goal of improving regulation while supporting the growth of esports and social gaming.
A key feature is the creation of the Online Gaming Authority of India, which will serve as the central regulatory body. It will maintain a registry of online money games, handle complaints and appeals, issue guidelines, and coordinate with banks and enforcement agencies. The authority will also oversee compliance across the sector.
The new system introduces clear criteria for classifying online money games, based on factors such as stakes, potential rewards, and revenue models. It also establishes a registration framework for esports and certain social gaming categories, while many non-real-money games will remain outside mandatory registration unless specifically required.
User protection measures are a core part of the rules, including age verification, parental controls, complaint mechanisms, and a two-tier dispute resolution system designed to strengthen accountability.
With the rollout approaching, India is moving toward a more structured regulatory environment for online gaming. The government says the framework is designed to balance industry growth with consumer protection, particularly by reducing financial and social risks linked to money-based gaming platforms.
