India’s online gaming industry is at a crossroads. As the government prepares to introduce the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, major gaming bodies have reached out to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for intervention. Their concern? A potential blanket ban on real money games could cripple a booming sector.
The All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), E-Gaming Federation (EGF), and Federation of India Fantasy Sports (FIFS) have jointly urged Shah to reconsider any prohibitive measures. Representing nearly the entire online skill-gaming sector, these bodies argue that such a move would contradict Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a USD 1 trillion digital economy.
In their representation, the gaming bodies highlighted staggering statistics. The industry currently boasts an enterprise valuation exceeding Rs 2 lakh crores, with annual revenues of Rs 31,000 crores. It contributes more than Rs 20,000 crores in taxes and supports over 2 lakh jobs. With a 20% CAGR growth rate, projections suggest doubling in size by 2028.
The numbers speak volumes. India’s gamer base exploded from 36 crores in 2020 to 50 crores in 2024. The sector has attracted over Rs 25,000 crores in foreign direct investment as of June 2022. Clearly, this isn’t just about games; it’s about livelihoods and economic momentum.
Their plea is clear. Instead of prohibition, they advocate for progressive regulation. The industry wants to work with the government to create a framework that balances innovation with user protection. Their statement emphasizes India’s potential to lead globally in gaming technology and digital entertainment.
We’ve seen this debate before. The tension between regulation and prohibition isn’t new, especially in emerging digital sectors. The gaming bodies argue that a nuanced approach could establish India as a model for responsible digital ecosystems. They’ve requested an urgent meeting to present their case directly.
Meanwhile, the bill marches forward. Slated for introduction in the Lok Sabha this Wednesday, it aims to establish a national regulatory framework. Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will present the legislation, which seeks to prohibit cross-border and foreign-operated money games.
The bill’s intentions appear protective. It focuses on safeguarding youth and vulnerable groups from potential harms. Provisions address social, economic, psychological, and privacy concerns while promoting responsible digital use. The legislation also aims to maintain public order and health standards.
This development comes at a pivotal moment. As digital penetration grows nationwide, so does the gaming industry’s footprint. The outcome of this regulatory push could shape India’s digital landscape for years. Will the government opt for strict controls or balanced oversight? The gaming sector clearly hopes for the latter.
Industry leaders emphasize their willingness to collaborate. Their joint statement reflects a desire for dialogue rather than confrontation. They seek recognition as legitimate contributors to India’s digital transformation, not rogue operators needing eradication.