The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved the Online Gaming Bill, aimed at regulating India’s rapidly expanding virtual gaming sector and cracking down on illegal betting. The move comes amid rising fraud linked to digital betting apps and celebrity endorsements. The bill is expected to be introduced in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
The bill seeks to make online betting via digital platforms a punishable offence, addressing key issues such as addiction, fraud, and inconsistent state gambling laws. It proposes stricter oversight of gaming platforms and may designate the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) as the central regulator. Authorities could also block unregistered or illegal platforms.
The legislation responds to:
Rising fraud linked to online betting apps.
Celebrity and influencer promotions of unauthorised platforms.
Offshore operators flouting compliance norms.
Under the bill, online betting and endorsements of illegal platforms will attract penalties. Violations can result in up to seven years imprisonment and fines.
India’s online gaming industry is projected to reach $9.1 billion by 2029, with real-money games accounting for nearly 86% of revenues. The bill aims to formalise regulation while curbing illegal and fraudulent operations.
Over the past three years, the government has strengthened oversight to ensure a safe gaming ecosystem:
MeitY issued 1,410 blocking directions against illegal gaming sites (2022–Feb 2025).
Finance Act 2023 and 28% GST brought online gaming under the Indian tax framework.
Enforcement of illegal betting rests with states under Section 112(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Cybersecurity and data protection strengthened under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, and IT Act.
Education, I&B, and Home Ministries launched advisories, disclaimers, helplines, and reporting portals like I4C and 1930 for online fraud complaints.