The Online Gaming Bill 2025 has cleared both houses of Parliament. The Lok Sabha passed it first, followed by the Rajya Sabha. With this, India has set new rules for the fast-growing gaming industry.
The bill clearly states that real-money gaming and online betting will not be allowed anymore. Apps that promote or run such games might face strict penalties. Breaking the law can lead to fines of up to Rs. 1 crore and jail for up to three years. Banks and payment firms are also barred from helping money flow into these games.
This decision impacts many popular apps. Fantasy sports platforms like Dream11, MPL, My11Circle, and Howzat, which allow players to transact and win money, are now banned. Poker and rummy platforms like PokerBaazi, Junglee Games, and GamesKraft also fall under this rule. Online lottery and casino games are included, too.
Dream11, one of the most valuable Indian startups, with a worth of nearly $8 billion, might lose its major revenue streams. MPL, valued at $2.5 billion, and other firms like My11Circle, Howzat, SG11 Fantasy, WinZO, Games24x7, Junglee Games, PokerBaazi, and GamesKraft might also bear huge losses. Investors and markets have already responded to the bill with sharp stock moves.
Dream 11 and MPL, along with other gaming platforms that have built their success on real-money gaming, are now forced to change their business models or risk shutting down in India.
The government says the bill aims to protect people from harm. Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told Parliament that many citizens lose their savings due to online gaming. He also said that some platforms have been misused for money laundering and even terror funding.
While real-money gaming is banned, the law encourages e-sports and social gaming. E-sports is now officially recognised as a sport in India. Educational and casual games without money stakes will get support. This gives a fresh opportunity to developers who focus on safe and skill-based games.
The bill also creates a new Online Gaming Authority. This body will oversee registrations, handle complaints, and make sure apps follow the law. It will also bring one national framework, replacing the confusing mix of state rules that currently exist.
India's online gaming industry is expected to reach $3.6 billion by 2029. The new law has the potential to change this paradigm. While real-money gaming apps may have adverse revenue effects, e-sports and casual gaming may rise to new heights with official recognition and support.
The bill now only needs the President’s approval to become law. It marks a turning point for digital gaming in India - shutting the door on risky real-money games while opening space for safe, skill-based play.
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