The rapid rise in online betting activities in India is driven by technological advancements and increased smartphone penetration. A focus on the digital infrastructure and the broad choice of instant payment opportunities popularized this entertainment among the younger generation representatives. According to reports released in March 2025, over 140 million residents reported engagement in different forms of online gambling, with sports wagering leading the charge. This growth comes with specific challenges, so it’s essential to evaluate both positive and negative sides when exploring the impact of the iGaming sector in India.
Factors Driving the Rise of Online Betting in the Country
Undeniably, the accessibility of digital bookmakers is the main reason why users are attracted to this activity. Unlike several decades ago, punters don’t need to visit physical betting shops, as everything now fits their smartphones. Besides the global growth of the iGaming industry, the following factors affect the evolution:
- Large young demographics. As a rule, younger adults are more likely to engage in risky activities and, at the same time, are keen on discovering the latest innovations.
- Boosting the sports landscape. Local sports culture is strong, with millions of Indians being passionate fans of cricket, specifically IPL, and football
- Regulatory gaps. Online betting isn’t regulated in India, which makes it a legal loophole for international operators licensed beyond the country’s borders
- Digital infrastructure. The Indian government is focused on developing a better online infrastructure, leading to a betting boom in the region
- Increased smartphone penetration. Mobile devices and high-quality connections are widespread, so everyone can access online bookmakers
All these factors are complemented by the growing number of online sportsbooks targeting punters from India. As the industry still sticks to the 1867 Act, there are no specific mentions of the digital sector. Domestic platforms aren’t allowed in the country, but this rule doesn’t concern international service providers. Many Indian bettors prefer to join the 1xBet site or other leading platforms that operate under the control of Curaçao eGaming and provide trustworthy conditions for all members.
Opportunities for the Online Betting Sector in India
The lack of regulations in the digital sector is the primary industry gap, and responsible authorities are already working on an updated framework that will address online sportsbooks. Legal clarity will benefit operators, customers, and the country as a whole. In states where online gambling is regulated, regional budgets can receive additional income from taxes. India can consider a similar approach that will help attract more market players and ensure compliance with global standards.
Economic Growth and Revenue Potential
If properly regulated, the iGaming sector can have a positive impact on the country’s socioeconomic climate. As mentioned, the budget can be replenished through betting taxes, but it’s not the only benefit of legalizing the sector. This move can also create additional workplaces in marketing, engineering, tech, customer support, and so on. As the unemployment rate in India remains high, this decision can help many residents to get a source of income.
Consumer Protection and Responsible Gambling Technologies
When the industry is not regulated, users face more risks of falling victim to fraudsters. On the contrary, legal operators must comply with global KYC and AML policies while guaranteeing customer security. Moreover, gambling-related disorders remain the main challenge of the iGaming sector. Currently, India lacks mechanisms to prevent this problem nationwide, but separate operators integrate specific tools to help users avoid the negative consequences of uncontrolled actions. These include deposit limitations, cooling-off periods, self-exclusion tools, and instant access to support groups.
Negative Aspects of Betting Industry Growth in India
In 2025, the sector remains unregulated, posing a significant challenge for both operators and customers. Bookmakers face difficulties when entering the country’s market, as this entertainment remains officially prohibited. Platforms operating in India are registered offshore, and the lack of local oversight creates threats for punters. It’s not a secret that not all online sportsbooks are equally fair. If the operator deceives a user, they have no legal mechanisms to resolve the dispute in their favor. Indian bettors can take advantage of numerous trusted bookies, but they still risk joining fraudulent platforms.
Social Impact of Uncontrolled Betting
Excessive betting is a global issue: the accessibility of online bookies increases engagement and the overall playtime. Gambling addiction not only affects individuals but also impacts families and communities, which is an unresolved problem in India. The country lacks consumer protection and safer gaming practices that would encourage users to stop in time and seek support, if necessary. In comparison, other countries are integrating responsible betting mechanisms by increasing user awareness of possible disorders and offering practical tools, such as self-exclusion.
Targeting Vulnerable Populations
Many operators use aggressive tactics to target customers, which can affect vulnerable populations in India. The state lacks a regulatory landscape, so international betting companies face no limitations on bonus sizes, odds, and so on. Some platforms gamify betting, making it feel like casual entertainment rather than a financial risk. While trusted sites conduct user verifications and immediately block underage users, some bookies are never socially responsible and provide services to anyone ready to pay.