India’s Online Gambling Ban Shuts Down Billion-Dollar Industry
India’s recent nationwide ban on online gambling has effectively shut down a billion-dollar industry that catered to hundreds of millions of users and even sponsored the national cricket team.
The new law, passed by parliament last month, was introduced after government figures revealed that gambling platforms were draining an estimated $2.3 billion annually from nearly 450 million people. Officials linked the rapid spread of online betting to financial distress, addiction, fraud, and even money laundering.
Gamblers Turning to Offshore Sites
While the ban is now in effect, regular players say determined gamblers will continue betting through overseas websites and unregulated platforms. Many are expected to use VPNs and proxy payment methods to bypass restrictions.
“A habit once formed cannot be broken easily,” said Adarsh Sharma, a fantasy sports player. “People will find ways to gamble.”
Impact on Fantasy Sports and Cricket Sponsorships
The ban covers card games and fantasy sports apps, including fantasy cricket, one of India’s most popular pastimes. Offenders now face up to five years in prison.
Dream11, the world’s largest fantasy sports platform with 260 million users, confirmed that it has stopped cash contests, replacing them with prizes like cars, phones, and household items. The company also ended its $43 million sponsorship deal with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), resulting in its branding being removed from Indian players’ jerseys.
For some fans, the appeal remains tied to cricket itself. “We play it for the love of cricket,” said Jamshed Noor, a Delhi resident. “Money was definitely an attraction, but I still play even without it.”
Ripple Effect on the IPL
Experts warn the ban will have major consequences for the Indian Premier League (IPL), one of the world’s most lucrative sporting events. Fantasy platforms were among the biggest advertisers in cricket, with analysts estimating they contributed up to 40% of broadcaster ad revenue this year.
“With their business model disrupted, fantasy platforms will reduce ad spending, which will hit broadcasters’ revenues,” said Karan Taurani of Elara Capital. Analysts believe this could even lower the renewal value of IPL’s media rights in 2027, as broadcasters may no longer be able to pay high premiums.
Government’s Position
Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw clarified that the new law distinguishes eSports from gambling, targeting only money-based fantasy and betting platforms that exploit users.
While the ban is seen as a major step toward curbing online gambling-related harm, its long-term impact on India’s digital economy, cricket sponsorships, and entertainment industry is still unfolding.
