India Moves to Ban Lucrative Online Money Games

India's government plans to ban online games played with money, citing psychological and financial harm. The bill targeting such games could significantly impact an industry attracting substantial foreign investment. The ban aims to curb addictive practices associated with popular fantasy sports platforms like Dream11 and Mobile Premier League.

In a decisive move, India's government is set to ban online money games, striking a blow to a rapidly growing industry that has drawn billions in foreign investments. The proposed legislation, viewed by Reuters, highlights concerns over the psychological and financial harm linked to these games.

The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill 2025 categorically prohibits engaging in any online gaming that involves real money. The bill defines these games as those requiring users to deposit money with the hope of monetary gain.

Despite the growing market, projected to hit $3.6 billion by 2029, the government is targeting platforms known for their addictive nature, such as the fantasy cricket games from Dream11 and Mobile Premier League, both of which boast significant valuations.

(With inputs from agencies.)