PM Modi Hails Gaming Bill as Safeguard Against Online Money Game Harms, Boost for Esports

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the new Online Gaming Bill, saying it would not only boost the development of esports but also curb the harmful effects of online money games. He emphasised that the Bill, passed by both Houses of Parliament, would lay the foundation for India to emerge as a global hub of gaming, innovation, and creativity.

The Online Gaming Bill, officially known the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, prohibits the operation, facilitation, and advertising of online money games, as the government seeks to tackle the growing issues of addiction, money laundering, and financial fraud associated with such applications.

At the same time, the Bill clearly distinguishes between skill-based activities, such as esports, and real-money gaming, thereby opening the door for greater structure, investment, and legitimacy within the esports sector.

"This Bill, passed by both Houses of Parliament, highlights our commitment towards making India a hub for gaming, innovation, and creativity. It will encourage esports and online social games. At the same time, it will save our society from the harmful effects of online money games," PM Modi wrote on X, responding to a post from Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, on the benefits of the new legislation.