The government has initiated a new wave of transformation in the handheld gaming industry, which is projected to increase the financial scale to $5 billion by 2025 from the current level of $1.5 billion. This shift is based on a strategy proposed by a specially appointed commission. Its activities are focused on increased regulatory oversight, a stricter disciplinary approach to internet betting and the classification of online games as gambling.
Spread over a long period of time, the commission has recommended the development of independent legislation. In the meantime, as the law comes into force, the proposed structure will be controlled under the directives of the existing Information Technology Act.
This transformation will fall on the shoulders of the Ministry of Information Technology, which will have centralized authority except for cyber sports and gambling. It will cover card games, various sports and other amusements where money is bet. It covers both domestic gaming companies and foreign organizations targeting Indian gamers. In this regard, MeitY has already published a list of amendments on IT rules with respect to gambling too.
The support structure envisioned for this innovation includes the creation of a regulatory body specific to the online gaming industry. The organization will adjudicate, approve various gaming formats and determine their presentation. It is expected that each case will be considered separately and it will start with the largest online casinos and bookmakers. For example, if mostbet app apk download is available, the Ministry of Information Technology will pre-screen the site, the operator, and the services it provides.
Transparency in the gaming industry is a cornerstone of the commission’s recommendations. A constitutional “Code of Ethics” for game publishers, emphasized in the plan, will govern the integrity of online gaming platforms. This includes enforcement of mandatory KYC norms and an effective grievance redressal mechanism.
The path to legitimacy for gaming platforms offering real-money online games to users will be paved through regulations. Registered under the law, these platforms will face potential blocking by the government if they do not operate as legal entities.
Recognizing the potential for disputes in this area, a three-tier mechanism is envisaged. It consists of the gaming platform, autonomous organizations and a supervisory committee headed by the concerned ministry.
This much is clear; the future of mobile gaming in India lies in staying away from turbulent currents and finding its home in regulated digital development. The long-awaited charting of its course is seen as a navigational beacon for regions around the world watching India’s digital evolution with interest.
