Online gaming norms to come into effect on May 1

New Delhi

India will bring into force a comprehensive set of rules to regulate the fast-growing online gaming sector from May 1, 2026, the government said on Wednesday.

The new framework, notified under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming (PROG) Act, 2025, reflects the Centre's dual objective of protecting users, especially children and vulnerable groups, from financial and psychological harm, while positioning the country as a global hub for gaming and digital creativity.

Framed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Rules, 2026 lay down the operational architecture for implementing the parent law, which was enacted by Parliament in August 2025. 

The rules were finalised after extensive inter-ministerial consultations and legal vetting, signalling the government's intent to bring clarity and regulatory certainty to an industry that has seen rapid growth alongside rising concerns over addictive and predatory money-based gaming platforms.

At the heart of the new framework is the establishment of the Online Gaming Authority of India, a digital-first regulator that will oversee classification, compliance, grievance redressal and enforcement.