India’s safer gaming future: Industry drafts CROG code to protect players and regulate play
India’s online gaming sector is experiencing explosive growth, with a recent report by WinZO Games and the Indian Economic Impact Council (IEIC) projecting market revenues to more than double—from $3.7 billion in 2024 to $9.1 billion by 2029, led largely by real money games. As the industry grows rapidly, recent media reports say the Central government is planning to bring in a single set of rules for the whole country, instead of the different laws followed by each state right now.
To support this growth while ensuring player protection, IndiaTech.org and the Digital India Foundation (DIF) have formally submitted a draft proposal to the Indian government advocating for the adoption of a unified, national framework titled the Code for Responsible Online Gaming (CROG). The report, , calls for a shift from punitive restrictions to a collaborative, user-first approach rooted in scientific research and global best practices.
Rameesh Kailasam, CEO and President of IndiaTech.org, stressed the urgency of the moment and said, “This report makes the compelling case that stakeholders such as government, industry, and civil society need to work together to foster a responsible online gaming ecosystem.”
Speaking exclusively to SiGMA News, CEO Rameesh Kailasam highlighted the importance of developing a code for responsible online gaming. He explained, “Coming up with a code for responsible online gaming—and the fact that the industry should come up with something like this—was important because there was a debate in the Parliament of India where there was no classification difference. People were debating the fact that there was no differentiation between betting and gambling, and people were contributing to the debate. So, we found a need for the people to be educated. Lawmakers should be educated on the differentiation and the classes.”
He said, “This has been our push in that direction for the last three years, where we have been urging the government and industry to come on a common footing, to ensure that the industry looks responsible, behaves responsibly, and provides a secure framework for its users. This would create a secure environment in India created by Indian platforms. As regards what comes from outside, it is for the government to decide how to regulate them. We have been giving inputs in that regard as well.”
Features of CROG
Proposed as a central guideline to inform regulatory practice and unify fragmented state-level policies, the CROG framework promotes voluntary safety steps to help users manage risks such as addiction and financial loss. The CROG framework offers a more balanced and flexible approach than harsh blanket bans or fixed time limits. Taking ideas from successful global examples, CROG includes simple tools that help players manage their gaming habits. These include:
- Age gating and verification mechanisms to prevent underage access
- User-defined limits on time and money spent
- Self-exclusion options, including temporary or permanent opt-out
- Parental control tools to monitor and guide minors’ gameplay
- Digital literacy and awareness campaigns to educate users
- Privacy and anti-fraud protections, including cybersecurity safeguards and clear privacy policies
These measures are designed to empower users, support safer gaming, and ensure industry accountability without relying on blanket restrictions
Arvind Gupta, Founder of DIF, reinforced the approach and said, “This report offers an in-depth examination of responsible gaming practices, drawing from global best practices and contextualising them within India’s unique digital landscape.”
He added, “These steps will prove essential as the online gaming industry continues its trajectory of growth and technological advancement. A future-ready gaming ecosystem requires a balanced approach, one that embraces innovation while prioritising consumer protection.”
Inspired by international practices in countries such as South Korea, Japan, Australia, Malta, the UK, and the US, the CROG framework champions a balanced path that empowers players rather than restricts them indiscriminately.
Why CROG matters?
India’s online gaming sector is one of the fastest-growing with projections estimating the market to reach Rs 66,000 crore ($8.9 billion) by 2028, CROG could become a foundational policy document to sustainably support this growth.
According to the report, the Indian gaming industry contributed over Rs 7,200 crore in GST revenue between FY20 and FY23, and monthly tax collections have quadrupled since the 28% GST rate on deposits was introduced. Real Money Gaming (RMG) alone is expected to yield Rs 80,000–85,000 crore in GST and Rs 6,500–7,000 crore in TDS between FY2025–29.
“Success in this sector will be measured by market growth and our ability to foster an ecosystem that prioritizes responsibility alongside innovation,” said Gupta.
The industry also promises to generate 200,000–300,000 new jobs in the coming years.
Avoiding pitfalls of overregulation
The report warns against the dangers of overregulation and ill-conceived bans, drawing on China’s experience where rigid time limits on minors led to increased VPN use and account rentals to circumvent restrictions.
IndiaTech and DIF argue that such restrictive models not only drive users towards unregulated platforms but also undermine consumer protection efforts.
The report stated, “While blanket, mandatory restrictions have often backfired, proving ineffective and even pushing users toward unsafe alternatives; voluntary, opt-in interventions have shown greater promise. Tools like customisable spending limits, coolingoff periods, and self-exclusion programs have helped many gamers regain control.”
The CROG framework provides a practical option instead of blanket bans. It follows India’s constitutional rules and allows both state and central governments to work together without holding back innovation.
Cognitive and social value of gaming
The report also outlines the cognitive, social, and emotional benefits of gaming—when practiced in moderation. Citing multiple international studies, it notes how online gaming can improve:
- Strategic thinking and creativity
- Emotional resilience and problem-solving
- Social connectedness and empathy
“Failure in games teaches emotional resilience and a growth mindset,” the report asserts. However, it acknowledges risks like loot boxes and algorithmic pricing models, calling for transparent and ethical monetisation practices that safeguard vulnerable users.
What’s next?
As the Centre works on creating a unified regulatory framework, IndiaTech and DIF’s submission of the CROG framework comes at an important time. It is likely to help guide government policy as MeitY develops the rules for regulating online gaming in India.
“We hope this report serves as a valuable resource, providing clarity and sparking informed discussions about the future of online gaming in India,” said Kailasam.
If adopted, CROG could pave the way for India to emerge not just as the world’s fastest-growing gaming market—but also as a global leader in responsible, innovative, and user-safe digital play.
