Fantasy Sports Participation among Indian Youth: Trends, Drivers, and Implications

Fantasy sports platforms such as Dream11, Team11, MyCircle11, and RummyCircle have witnessed exponential growth in India, drawing strong engagement from young users. This paper explores the statistical trends, driving forces, behavioural patterns, and implications of fantasy sports participation among Indian youth. Using recent data and research, the study delves into the motivations, challenges, and prospects of this burgeoning industry. The rapid adoption of smartphones and affordable internet has enabled platforms to penetrate deeply into urban and semi-urban areas, attracting millions of young users. The research highlights a significant correlation between these technological advancements and the growing popularity of fantasy sports. Additionally, the study identifies monetary incentives, passion for sports, and peer influence as major factors contributing to the surge in participation. The study emphasizes the challenges, including legal ambiguities, risks of addiction, and potential financial losses faced by participants. The research further discusses the role of major sporting events like IPL in driving participation. This paper concludes with actionable insights and policy recommendations, stressing the need for a comprehensive regulatory framework, policy implications for responsible gaming initiatives. By addressing these areas, stakeholders can ensure sustainable growth in this dynamic industry.