India is undergoing a transformation in its gaming regulations with the introduction of the Online Gaming Bill 2025. The focus is on controlling online real money games, which involve monetary stakes. The government’s strategy is to bolster the esports industry, influencing the gaming ecosystem, IT sector, and public companies in India.
**Comparing Esports and Money Games**
Esports are characterized by skill and strategic gameplay. Players utilize their mental and physical skills to win. This includes games like BGMI, Valorant, FIFA, Clash Royale, and Dota, where success relies on individual performance. These sports feature tournaments, prize pools, and participants are regarded as “sports stars.”
Money games involve real-money wagering, and success is dependent on skill and luck. From Dream11 to RummyCircle, Poker tables, and Teen Patti, chance is an important factor in the outcome.
**Key Government Initiatives**
* Esports are classified as sports, distinct from gambling.
* Creation of a National Authority to:
* Manage game legality and restrictions.
* Enforce mandatory game registration.
* Encourage Esports competitions.
* Foster the creation of home-grown Indian games, like PUBG.
* Promote esports versions of traditional sports, like cricket, football, and chess.
This provides opportunities for Indian game developers, offers prize money and international exposure to esports athletes, and boosts the IT and startup sectors, helping India to solidify its position in the global esports market.
**Potential Drawbacks**
The regulations on money games may impact business models and could result in job losses in the Fantasy and Rummy app sectors. Furthermore, the government will need to delineate between esports and gambling-adjacent games.
**Government’s Approach to Advancing E-Gaming**
The government will concentrate on esports and issue new guidelines after the new gaming bill is approved. The government will focus on esports by taking essential steps.