Online Gaming Bill 2025: What’s Banned and What’s Allowed, Explains Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, was passed in the Rajya Sabha on August 21 after clearing the Union Cabinet and both Houses of Parliament within 72 hours. Aimed at tackling the harmful effects of real-money games (RMGs), the bill bans RMGs outright and criminalises their promotion by celebrities, athletes, and influencers. It also targets institutions involved in facilitating financial transactions for such platforms, while encouraging e-sports and casual gaming.