Online Gaming Legislation in India, 2025, Targets Adolescent Gaming Addiction and Accumulated Debts

In recent times, a growing concern has emerged regarding the impact of compulsive online gaming on teenagers in India. This issue has caught the attention of both academia and policymakers, leading to the introduction of the Online Gaming Bill.

The bill, passed by the Rajya Sabha on August 20, 2025, aims to address the financial, psychological, and social impact of excessive gaming among teenagers. According to Manvi Khurana, Chief Counselling Psychologist at Karma Care, compulsive online gaming can pose severe mental health risks and has neurological parallels with substance abuse.

Sadly, cases of teenagers falling into debt and psychological distress due to compulsive online gaming are not uncommon. A 13-year-old from Pune siphoned Rs 2 lakh from his mother's bank account to buy virtual weapons in a popular game, while a 16-year-old in Indore lost nearly Rs 80,000 in just six months by borrowing money to play paid contests.

Adolescents caught in gaming addiction often display avoidant behavior, reduced attention spans, and a constant urge to return to the screen. When instant gratification is not met, they can become impulsive, temperamental, and seek comfort in gaming.

The Online Gaming Bill also aims to regulate misleading advertisements, including celebrity endorsements that promote glamour or quick wealth. These advertisements can potentially exacerbate the problem by encouraging excessive gaming.

The bill may have significant implications for the regulation of online gaming in India. It seeks to curb the growing threat of gambling in digital games, as highlighted by the Rajya Sabha clearing the bill to address this issue.

Himani Jha, a tech news writer at our platform with contributions to leading publications such as Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech for the past five years, has been at the forefront of covering this topic. Jha, who also has a love for fine literature and timeless music, has provided insightful analysis on the Online Gaming Bill and its potential impact on the lives of teenagers in India.

When not immersed in gadgets, Jha enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cafes and restaurants. This balance between technology and real-world experiences serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle in the digital age.

As the Online Gaming Bill continues to be a topic of debate, it is crucial to raise awareness about the potential dangers of compulsive online gaming and promote responsible gaming practices among teenagers. By doing so, we can help ensure a safer and healthier digital environment for the future generations.