Online Gaming Ban: Job Cuts Ahead?

In New Delhi, the recently proposed Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 has ignited intense debate within the gaming community and industry stakeholders. The bill seeks to prohibit real-money online games, a move that could drastically reshape the sector.

Industry leaders have voiced grave concerns over the potential consequences of this legislation. According to the Indian Gaming Association, the ban could trigger massive job losses, forcing numerous companies to shutter operations, thereby inflicting severe financial strain on the industry.

The bill’s proponents argue that the prohibition is necessary to mitigate adverse mental health effects linked to real-money gaming. However, critics highlight that the legislation may inadvertently push the market underground, complicating regulatory oversight and enforcement.

Legal experts caution that the bill includes stringent penalties, including imprisonment for entities failing to comply, raising the stakes for companies operating in this space. Dr. Anjali Mehta, a media and communication scholar at Delhi University, notes, “While protecting public health is crucial, policymakers must balance regulation with sustainable industry growth to avoid economic fallout.”

As the bill advances through parliamentary discussions, the gaming sector faces an uncertain future. Stakeholders urge a comprehensive impact assessment to ensure that the regulatory framework supports both social welfare and economic vitality.