The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology notified the Online Gaming Promotion and Regulation Rules, 2026 on 22 April 2026. The rules come into force on 1 May 2026 and operate under the Online Gaming Act, 2025. The framework covers real-money games, online social games, and e-sports.
Regulatory framework
The Online Gaming Authority of India is headquartered in Delhi. The Authority determines whether an online game falls within the category of a real-money game, an online social game, or an e-sport. The rules provide a formal mechanism for classification and compliance under the 2025 Act.
Payment blocking and banking duties
Under the rules, banks and financial intermediaries must suspend or block transactions linked to specified online games when directed by the Online Gaming Authority of India. Banks and financial institutions that facilitate payments for banned online money games or promote such activity may face penal action from 1 May 2026. The framework applies to payment channels, intermediaries, and related financial services.
Real-money games and legal status
Real-money online games are banned in India under the Online Gaming Act, 2025. The 2026 rules operationalise the statutory ban through classification, transaction control, and enforcement provisions. Games involving financial stakes are subject to tighter scrutiny under the new framework.
User safety features
- The rules include age verification for users of online games.
- The rules provide for time limits on gameplay.
- The rules include parental controls for minors.
- The rules provide user reporting systems for complaints and misuse.
- The rules include mechanisms for fair play and integrity in online gaming.
Exemptions and coverage
Social and casual gaming are generally exempt from prior approval requirements under the framework. E-sports are treated separately from real-money games and are placed within the classification powers of the Authority. The rules create a regulatory distinction between games of skill, social games, and games involving monetary stakes. The Online Gaming Authority of India functions as the central classification body under the 2026 rules. The rules apply from 1 May 2026 to banks, financial intermediaries, and online gaming entities operating in India.
Last Modified: April 23, 2026