Online Gaming Regulation Bill Approved, PM Modi Calls It a Step Towards Innovation

National News: The Online Gaming Promotion and Regulation Bill has officially become law after being passed by both Houses of Parliament. The government said the law is an important step to protect people from the dangers of online money games. At the same time, it will support e-sports and healthy online gaming.

On Wednesday, the bill was cleared in the Lok Sabha, and just a day later, the Rajya Sabha also gave its approval. The government explained that many people have lost their entire savings by playing online money-based games. Some even fall into debt and face family or social problems.

PM Modi Welcomes the Bill

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the decision on his social media handle. He wrote that this law proves India’s commitment to becoming a center for gaming, innovation, and creativity. He further said that while e-sports and online social games will be encouraged, the harmful effects of money games will now be controlled. According to him, the law is designed not just for entertainment but also for the safety and well-being of society.

Concerns from the Gaming Industry

However, the bill did not receive unanimous support. A few leaders from the gaming industry opposed it, claiming that such restrictions could hurt investments worth thousands of crores. They argued that the online gaming sector had created jobs and revenue opportunities for many.

The government, however, stood firm on its decision. It said the financial and social harm caused by money games is far greater than any loss of revenue. Accepting this reasoning, the Rajya Sabha members gave their approval to the bill.

Key Features of the Bill

The Online Gaming Promotion and Regulation Bill has several important provisions:

• It promotes e-sports and social online games.
• It imposes restrictions on money-based games and the companies that run them.
• Advertisements, financial services, and transactions related to such games are banned.
• Punishments are included for service providers, promoters, and advertisers who support online money games.

Interestingly, the bill does not punish individuals who play these games or those who face losses. The focus is mainly on those who promote or profit from the system.

A Social Concern

Over the past few years, online money gaming has become a serious social issue in India. Several reports show that players often lose huge sums of money, pushing families into financial crisis. Addiction to such games has even led to cases of suicide. The government believes this law will protect people from such risks and create a safer environment for the younger generation.

The passage of this bill marks a new phase in India’s approach to digital entertainment—encouraging safe innovation while protecting society from harmful practices.