Nuked 
Hey there, tech lovers! Today, let’s dive into the big news from India about online gaming.
India’s lower house of parliament has approved a major bill that bans real-money online games across the country. This legislation, called the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, aims to support safe and casual gaming while shutting down gambling for money. If the bill becomes law, it could shake up a huge industry worth around $23 billion, with many companies facing shutdowns and investments at risk.
The law would prohibit any game involving skill or chance for real money, banning both advertising and financial transactions linked to such games. The government also plans to restrict banks and financial institutions from handling payments for these games. Offenders could face up to three years in jail and hefty fines, with celebrities promoting such games potentially risking two years of imprisonment or large fines.
India’s IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw explained the move by highlighting concerns over harm and instances of suicide linked to money losses in these games. However, critics argue that offshore betting apps are the main culprits, and this bill might do little to curb those illegal platforms. Industry experts also warn that the legislation might lead to legal challenges, as it conflicts with citizens’ rights to earn a living, guaranteed by the constitution.
Before the bill’s approval, major industry groups sent letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, warning that the bans could push players into illegal offshore gambling operations. These companies, like Dream Sports, MPL, and WinZO, collectively worth billions, say the bill could cause hundreds of companies to close and thousands of jobs to be lost. Shares of some tech firms involved in gaming also took a hit after the law’s passage.
Some companies involved in casual gaming and esports see the legislation as a positive step, letting them focus on building content without the pressure of real-money stakes. Industry leaders emphasize the need for clear rules that distinguish between different types of gaming to prevent confusion and support growth.
The legislation is now moving towards the upper house and then to the president for approval. Meanwhile, various industry voices and investors are carefully monitoring the situation as the ban could reshape the future of gaming in India.
