India has taken a bold step in regulating its fast-growing online gaming industry. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, passed by the Cabinet on 19 August, seeks to promote esports while imposing a strict ban on real money games, gambling, and betting.
The Bill, now heading to Parliament, could reshape not only competitive gaming but also the wider sporting and sponsorship landscape.
Esports Gets Official Recognition
For the first time, esports will be officially recognised as a competitive sport in India. The Ministry of Sports will set standards for tournaments, establish training academies, and integrate esports into national sports policy. The Bill also proposes incentives and awareness programmes to help esports grow as a mainstream activity.
A Ban on Real Money Games
The Bill places a blanket ban on online gambling, betting and money-based gaming. These activities are seen as posing risks of addiction, fraud, and financial loss. Banks and payment providers are prohibited from processing transactions linked to such platforms, and existing money-based games will be blocked under the IT Act.
Impact on Cricket and Sponsorship
One of the biggest shake-ups will be in the cricket sponsorship market. Fantasy gaming platforms such as Dream11 and My11Circle have invested heavily in Indian cricket, from national team title rights to IPL deals worth hundreds of crores.
With the ban in place, the advertising sector could lose an estimated ₹17,000 crore (£1,450,136), affecting not only cricket but also sports like kabaddi and football that rely on gaming sponsorship.
Offences and Penalties
Violations of the Bill carry severe punishments. Offering real money gaming services could result in up to three years’ imprisonment or a fine of ₹1 crore (£85,302). Advertising such services also carries penalties of up to two years in jail or a fine of ₹50 lakh (£42,659).
What This Means Going Forward
The Online Gaming Bill represents a major shift. On one hand, it creates a structured pathway for esports to thrive. On the other, it effectively dismantles the multi-billion-rupee fantasy gaming sector tied to cricket and other sports.
How the industry adapts to this new legal landscape will be closely watched in the months ahead.
If you think you have been impacted by this ban, contact us at pbhanot@wyn.legal
