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India Bans Real Money Gaming, Esports Get Green Light
24 Apr
Summary
- New gaming rules effective May 1, 2026, under PROG Act, 2025.
- Online Gaming Authority established under MeitY for regulation.
- E-sports require registration; money games remain prohibited.
India's comprehensive online gaming regulatory framework is set to become operational on May 1, 2026, under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming (PROG) Act, 2025. This new legislation establishes an Online Gaming Authority, an attached office of MeitY, to oversee the sector.
The authority will be responsible for regulating and classifying gaming platforms, distinguishing between permissible e-sports and social games, and prohibited online money games. E-sports and certain notified social games must undergo a registration process.
