India will implement new online gaming rules from May 1 under the PROG Act, 2025. The framework establishes a central regulator, classifies gaming categories, and introduces conditional registration. It aims to curb risks from money-based games, protect users—especially minors—and provide regulatory clarity while promoting India as a global gaming hub.

New Delhi: India will bring into force a comprehensive set of rules to regulate the fast-growing online gaming sector from May 1, the government said on Wednesday.

The new framework, notified under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming (PROG) Act, 2025, reflects the Centre’s dual objective of protecting users -- especially children and vulnerable groups -- from financial and psychological harm, while positioning the country as a global hub for gaming and digital creativity.

Framed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Rules, 2026 lay down the operational architecture for implementing the parent law, which was enacted by the Parliament in August 2025.

The rules were finalised after extensive inter-ministerial consultations and legal vetting, signalling the government’s intent to bring clarity and regulatory certainty to an industry that has seen rapid growth alongside rising concerns over addictive and predatory money-based gaming platforms.