Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Aug 21: Union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday underscored the societal importance of the newly passed Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, describing it as a balanced framework that fosters innovation in e-sports and social gaming while drawing a hard line against harmful online money games.
Labeling online gaming as a key pillar of "Digital Bharat," Vaishnaw explained that the legislation distinguishes between three categories: e-Sports, Online Social Games, and Online Money Games. While the first two are seen as beneficial and deserving of legal recognition and government support, the third is outright banned due to its damaging social impact.
The Bill officially legitimizes e-sports as competitive, skill-based digital sports similar to cricket or football, requiring "strategy, reflexes, and teamwork." Social games — such as Angry Birds, card games, and educational apps — are also promoted as tools for learning and engagement. The government, he said, plans to roll out schemes to encourage developers and nurture India’s gaming creator economy.
However, online money games, which involve financial stakes, have been banned. Vaishnaw cited widespread addiction, family crises, financial ruin, and links to money laundering and terror financing as urgent reasons for prohibition. Misleading celebrity endorsements and exploitative in-app practices have also fueled public outrage, with thousands of complaints pouring in from across the country.
“Crores of middle-class families have suffered. Lives have been destroyed, savings lost, and debts incurred,” said Vaishnaw. “This Bill prioritizes the safety of families over revenue. When faced with such a choice, PM Modi has always stood with the middle class.”
The Bill includes provisions to establish a central authority that will coordinate national policy, support industry growth, and ensure strict regulatory enforcement — aiming to transform the gaming ecosystem into one that is safe, productive, and future-ready.