• India’s lower house passes a law banning real-money online games, aiming for “social welfare” but threatening a $23B industry.
  • Industry warns of shutdowns, job losses, investor flight, and a rise in untaxed offshore gambling.
  • The bill awaits the upper house and presidential approval and is expected to face legal and market challenges.

India has taken a decisive step against real-money online gaming, as the lower house of parliament approved a bill outlawing such games—regardless of skill or chance—and barring financial transactions, ads, and celebrity endorsements associated with them.

Titled the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, the legislation is poised to reshape a $23 billion sector employing over 200,000 people, pending upper house and presidential sign-off.

Driven by reports of social harm, India’s government said the move is for “the welfare of society,” but industry bodies like the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports and All India Gaming Federation argue it will only push users toward untaxed, unregulated offshore gambling.

Legal experts added that the ban may face constitutional challenges for infringing trade rights and failing to address offshore betting apps, the source of much of the reported harm.

Under the bill, violators face up to three years in prison or a ₹10 million fine, while celebrities can be fined or jailed for promoting banned games.

Market reaction was swift: gaming investors and listed companies like Nazara Technologies saw sharp stock declines, though some casual and esports startups welcomed regulatory clarity.

Industry leaders warn the ban will shutter compliant Indian companies, double down on illegal gambling, and endanger sector growth.

An investor-led letter highlighted a risk of $23 billion in lost enterprise value, a projected doubling by 2028 that may never come to pass, and the risk of 400 company closures.

The new bill comes on the heels of increased taxes and regulatory instability, clouding India’s reputation as an investment destination for both local entrepreneurs and global backers.

Edited by Annette George