Online Gaming Bill: President Murmu gives assent; framework to promote e-sports, curb money games

President Murmu has approved the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, aiming to promote e-sports and regulate online gaming. The legislation outlaws money-based games, with severe penalties for service providers, advertisers, and financiers. While acknowledging potential GST revenue losses, the government prioritises preventing addiction and financial risks associated with money gaming, also giving e-sports legal backing.