10 Important Provisions Of Promotion And Regulation Of Online Gaming, 2025

In a major move to address the rapidly growing digital gaming sector, the Parliament has passed The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, aiming to promote e-sports and social gaming while imposing a blanket ban on online money games. The Act, which received Presidential assent on Friday, establishes a national regulatory framework to balance innovation with consumer safety and public health.

Ten Crucial Provisions of the Online Gaming Act, 2025

1. Ban on Online Money Games 

Any game involving payment of stakes or expectation of monetary gain is prohibited, regardless of whether it is skill- or chance-based.

2. Recognition of E-Sports 

E-sports are officially recognised as competitive sports, with support for training, infrastructure, and tournaments.

3. Promotion of Social and Educational Games 

Non-monetary games for recreation, learning, and digital literacy will be registered and promoted by the government.

4. Establishment of Regulatory Authority 

A new Authority on Online Gaming will regulate, categorise, and oversee games, issue guidelines, and handle grievances.

5. Ban on Advertisements of Money Games 

Any form of advertisement, endorsement, or promotion of online money games is prohibited across all media.

6. Restrictions on Financial Transactions 

Banks and intermediaries cannot facilitate transactions related to online money gaming services.

7. Stringent Penalties 

Violators face imprisonment (up to 3 years for first offence and 5 years for repeat offences) and fines up to ₹2 crore.

8. Non-Bailable Offences 

Key violations, including running money games and financial facilitation, are cognizable and non-bailable offences.

9. Blocking of Illegal Platforms 

The government has the power to block access to online money gaming websites and apps under IT laws.

10. Powers of Search and Seizure 

Authorised officers can conduct searches and arrests without warrant in both physical and digital spaces, ensuring strong enforcement.

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