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‘Gaming is Not Bad, Gambling Is’: PM Modi Explains New Law on Online Gaming
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‘Gaming is Not Bad, Gambling Is’: PM Modi Explains New Law on Online Gaming

2 months ago
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Introduction

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has addressed the nation on India’s new online gaming law, clarifying that while gaming itself can be positive, gambling elements pose a major threat to youth and society . His remarks highlight the government’s intent to safeguard students and families from the harmful effects of unregulated online gaming.

Gaming vs. Gambling: Drawing the Line


According to PM Modi, online gaming in its pure form is not harmful . In fact, it can foster creativity, skill development, and even contribute to India’s global dominance in the digital entertainment industry. However, gambling-oriented games —which involve money staking and chance-based rewards—have been creating a social crisis.

Why the New Law Was Necessary

The Prime Minister stressed that the law was a “major decision” influenced by multiple alarming trends:

  • Youth under pressure : Many students were getting distracted and negatively influenced by addictive online games.
  • Financial destruction : Families reported mounting debts due to gambling losses.
  • Mental health crisis : Cases of depression and even suicides linked to gaming-related debt were on the rise.

“It is a major decision because countless online games are negatively influencing our students. Many people were falling into debt, some even committing suicide. Families had been destroyed due to financial difficulties related to online games.” – PM Modi

The Bigger Vision: India as a Gaming Hub

While condemning gambling elements, PM Modi also emphasized that India has the potential to lead the global online gaming market . With its massive youth population, strong IT talent base, and digital infrastructure, India can create a regulated, skill-based, and innovative gaming ecosystem that attracts global recognition.

Balancing Innovation and Protection

The new law aims to balance opportunity with responsibility :

  • Encourage innovation : Support developers to build engaging, skill-based games.
  • Protect users : Ensure safeguards against gambling, addiction, and financial exploitation.
  • Promote regulation : Establish a transparent legal framework to attract investors and global collaborations.

Conclusion

PM Modi’s statement signals a paradigm shift —India does not want to ban online gaming altogether but intends to differentiate skill-based innovation from harmful gambling practices . The goal is clear: to protect youth, empower families, and position India as a global leader in the gaming industry .

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