Centre Plans Law to Ban Real Money Gaming Firms, Says Official

Rapid Summary

• The Union Cabinet approved the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 on August 19, 2025.
• The Bill seeks to ban online real money games (RMGs), including fantasy sports platforms like Dream11 and card game apps such as PokerBaazi.
• The definition of “online money gaming” includes activities involving monetary deposits with expectations of monetary or other returns; these are now prohibited under the Bill.
• no draft Bill was circulated prior to approval, signaling limited public consultation before its introduction in Parliament.
• Industry players have not formally commented but have historically resisted government regulation efforts,including opposing increased GST on RMGs and obtaining legal stays at State levels based on distinctions between skill-based and chance-based games.
• Online gaming has been placed under the IT Ministry’s authority for enforcement. Previous self-regulatory measures faced criticism from officials over their independence from industry firms.
• Esports tournaments collecting entry fees are exempted from the prohibition.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill represents a notable escalation in india’s approach to regulating online gaming industries. By encompassing a broad definition that targets gambling-like tendencies in RMG formats, it could lead to substantial disruptions for operators who previously relied on legal distinctions between skill-based games and chance-based gambling. This demonstrates a decisive push by the government toward stringent oversight.

the lack of public consultation beforehand raises concerns about openness and inclusiveness in policymaking-an aspect essential for industries that contribute significantly to India’s economy through tax revenues like GST. Though, carving out exceptions for esports indicates some recognition of innovation-focused segments within digital entertainment.If implemented effectively without stifling technological growth or legitimate businesses grounded in skill-based gaming models, this legislation could help address concerns around addiction, fraud, and ethical misuse tied to online gambling practices while simultaneously shaping India’s long-term digital policy framework.Read more: Link