Freed from real-money gaming shadow, esports companies seek rules, sops to up game

Mumbai: With the government enforcing a nationwide ban on real-money gaming (RMG) and unveiling draft rules for the broader online gaming sector, industry players are urging policymakers to redirect attention toward nurturing legitimate video gaming and esports in India.

Executives say that with RMG-based platforms now outlawed, the next phase of policy action should prioritise building sustainable, non-monetary gaming ecosystems through fiscal incentives, infrastructure investment, and clearer operating guidelines. They believe that with the right mix of regulation, demographics, and entrepreneurship, India could become a global leader in gaming not just by player numbers but also by innovation.