Prime Minister Modi Applauds Passage of Online Gaming Bill 2025
Legislation Aims to Safeguard Society
Following the approval of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed that this new law is designed to shield society from the adverse effects associated with online gambling. In a message shared on X, he emphasized that the legislation will also promote e-sports and social gaming.
PM Modi stated, "This Bill, which has received approval from both Houses of Parliament, underscores our dedication to establishing India as a center for gaming, innovation, and creativity. It will foster e-sports and online social games while simultaneously protecting our society from the detrimental impacts of online money games."
Details of the Online Gaming Bill
This Bill, passed by both Houses of Parliament, highlights our commitment towards making India a hub for gaming, innovation and creativity. It will encourage e-sports and online social games. At the same time, it will save our society from the harmful effects of online money… https://t.co/t1iUuH9JP1
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 21, 2025
On Thursday, the Rajya Sabha passed the Online Gaming Bill amidst ongoing protests from the opposition. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw introduced the bill in the Lok Sabha a day earlier, where it was approved through a voice vote. The Minister outlined that the government's goal is to enhance online social games and e-sports.
Prohibitions and Objectives
The Online Gaming Bill 2025 bans online games that involve monetary stakes, addressing issues like financial loss and addiction. It enforces a comprehensive prohibition on all types of online betting and gambling. During his address in the Rajya Sabha, Vaishnaw remarked, "Online gaming has become a significant sector in the digital landscape, comprising three segments. The first is e-sports, where teams collaborate, enhance coordination, and develop strategic skills. Our athletes have achieved numerous accolades. This bill will promote e-sports, establish an authority for it, and grant it legal status. The second segment includes Online Social Games, such as solitaire, chess, and Sudoku, which will also receive encouragement and support through the creation of an authority."
Parliamentary Session Update
The Monsoon Session of Parliament began on July 21, 2025, and was adjourned sine die on Thursday.