The Union government is set to introduce the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, aiming to impose a nationwide ban on money-based online gaming, according to media reports.
The move seeks to address the regulatory vacuum caused by inconsistent state-level rules and to protect users—especially minors and young adults—from financial risks.
The draft bill, reportedly reviewed by Hindustan Times, prohibits any game or platform where users stake money for monetary returns. However, it makes a clear exception for e-Sports, separating competitive gaming from gambling.
If passed, the legislation would mark a major step toward creating a uniform regulatory framework for India’s online gaming industry.