India's New Gaming Bill: Boost for eSports, Ban on Money Games
The new Indian bill promotes eSports and online social games while prohibiting online money gaming. It imposes strict penalties for violations but avoids criminalizing players to focus on perpetrators. The bill aims to curb financial losses and illicit activities linked to money-based online games.
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In a significant move to reform the digital gaming landscape, the Union Cabinet on Tuesday cleared the 'Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill.' The legislation draws a firm line between eSports and online money gaming, prohibiting the latter alongside its advertisements.
The bill prescribes severe penalties, including hefty fines and imprisonment, for those offering or promoting online money gaming services. The legislation aims to recognize eSports formally, facilitating India's participation in the global competitive gaming environment and fostering innovation and growth in the Indian gaming startup ecosystem.
In addressing public interest concerns, the bill intends to safeguard individuals from the addictive and financially hazardous aspects of online money games. It proposes establishing a statutory regulatory authority to oversee online gaming and ensure compliance. This move is set against a backdrop of rising incidences of financial losses and mental health impacts linked to online gaming.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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