In a significant development for India’s online gaming and esports industry, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has released the Draft for the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Rules, 2025 (“Draft Rules”) and invited feedback from stakeholders. The rules aim to provide a structured framework for the growth, promotion, and regulation of online gaming in India.

The Draft Rules propose the establishment of the Online Gaming Authority of India (OGAI), tasked with determining whether an online game qualifies as an “online money game,” overseeing the recognition and registration of esports and social games, enforcing compliance, and managing grievance redressal. The Authority will be composed of a Chairperson and five ex-officio members from various government ministries.

Under the draft, esports will fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, signaling the government’s recognition of esports as a legitimate sport. Online game service providers intending to offer esports or social games will need to register with the OGAI. Registered esports will receive a certificate of registration valid for up to five years, while registration cancellation would render the service provider ineligible for government support or incentives. The rules also mandate the establishment of grievance redressal mechanisms to protect players.

Industry Leaders Welcome the Move

Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming, said:

"By bringing esports firmly under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the government has recognised esports as a legitimate sport while creating a framework for structured growth. This should accelerate grassroots programs, open the door for state and district-level championships, and ensure players see a clear career pathway much like traditional sports. At the same time, the composition, impartiality, and industry knowledge of the proposed Online Gaming Authority of India will be of utmost importance."

Animesh Agarwal, Co-founder and CEO of S8UL, added:

"This is a landmark moment for India’s gaming and esports industry. Official recognition and a clear distinction provide much-needed legitimacy and clarity to players, creators, organizations, investors, and other stakeholders. This clarity is set to attract more brands and partners, unlocking larger sponsorships, creator collaborations, and grassroots programs. Esports in India is no longer just a trend. It’s a legitimate career path, and S8UL is leading the way."

Vishal Parekh, COO of CyberPowerPC India, said:

"The government’s focus on gaming and esports is an encouraging signal that India sees the sector’s cultural and economic potential. Many games today sit in a grey area between skill-based competition and social entertainment, which can make regulatory jurisdiction complex. The OGAI will play a key role in providing clarity, aligning ministries, and ensuring a transparent registration process, so developers can innovate with confidence."

Parth Chadha, Co-founder and CEO of STAN, noted:

"The Draft Rules under the PROG Act are a very progressive step for India’s gaming industry. For social gaming platforms, these rules provide much-needed regulatory certainty. The framework for voluntary registrations, clarity on what constitutes an 'online money game' vs a 'social game,' and a structured grievance redressal mechanism will help platforms operate smoothly while protecting users, particularly young players, from addiction, financial losses, and illegal activities."

Looking Ahead

The release of the Draft Rules marks a decisive step towards formalizing India’s esports and online gaming ecosystem, with the potential to attract investment, encourage grassroots participation, and protect players. Stakeholders now have the opportunity to provide feedback before the rules are finalized, shaping the future of a sector poised for rapid growth.