India’s parliament has passed a new law banning online gambling to try to reduce addiction, financial losses, and social problems.
The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill (2025) bans real-money online gambling sites and gambling ads within India. Lawmakers say this step is needed to protect vulnerable people from addiction and other risks.
The ban has disrupted a growing industry that was closely linked to India’s sports economy, especially cricket. Fantasy sports and online card game companies, which used to sponsor teams and tournaments, have stopped cash contests and pulled out of advertising. Broadcasters and sports teams are now seeking new ways to make up for lost income, and fans who enjoy betting on sports are increasingly turning to offshore options.
Officials believe the law will help grow esports and educational games in India’s digital economy. However, critics say that banning real-money gaming hurts innovation and does not reflect how global digital business works.
Players Turn to Offshore Platforms
Even with the government’s efforts, gambling has not stopped. Instead, players are now using legal Indian gambling sites based outside the country. Reports show that more Indians are using VPNs and proxy payments to keep betting online.
Surveys in areas such as Delhi NCR show that offshore betting has increased since the ban, with some estimates showing double-digit growth.
Analysts warn that the government’s approach could make the risks it wanted to reduce even worse.
Regulatory and Economic Implications
Players moving to offshore sites is not new, since these sites have accepted Indian players since the early 2000s. Analysts believe that regulating, licensing, and monitoring online gambling would be more effective than a total ban on betting apps. Other countries show that regulated online gambling can protect consumers and generate revenue.
Right now, India’s gambling scene is divided. Local companies have closed or switched to games without cash prizes, but online casinos, sportsbooks, and poker rooms still attract Indian players with bonuses and more payment options. It is still unclear how this will affect sports sponsorships, ads, and consumer habits in the long run. Early signs show that the ban has not stopped gambling, but has just moved it outside India.
As policymakers review the law’s effects, the debate shows how hard it is to regulate digital industries worldwide. India’s effort to limit online gambling highlights the struggle between protecting people and keeping up with global business. Whether the ban succeeds or leads to more offshore gambling, these trends will influence future rules.