The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 passed by Lok Sabha

In brief

The Union Cabinet, on 19 August 2025, approved the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025¹ (Bill) to effectively regulate online gaming in India. Subsequently, the Bill was passed by the Lok Sabha on 20 August 2025. This Bill aims to establish a national legal framework to promote and regulate the online gaming sector, including e-sports, educational games and social gaming. It also applies to the online money gaming services offered or operated from outside India targeting Indian users. 

The Bill empowers the Central Government to establish an authority to regulate online gaming, including the recognition and registration of games, while promoting e-sports, educational and social games through various initiatives. It strictly prohibits online money gaming and related financial transactions, with severe penalties including imprisonment and heavy fines for violations, and holds company officers accountable. The authority is granted enforcement powers, such as investigation and blocking access to illegal services.