Balancing Play and Protection: Public Health Risks and Regulatory Measures in India’s Online Gaming Landscape

Background India’s online gaming industry has seen rapid growth, with over 425 million gamers in 2023. While gaming offers recreational and economic benefits, it also raises public health concerns, particularly regarding problematic gaming behaviors among adolescents and young adults. Regulatory challenges have emerged as authorities attempt to balance industry growth with consumer protection. Aim To examine the impact of recent regulatory measures in India’s online gaming sector, including taxation policies and international regulatory frameworks, towards reducing gaming-related harm. Methods This theoretical article discusses the current landscape of India’s gaming regulation. Relevant legal documents, government policies, academic literature, and reliable news sources were purposively selected to assess their implications for public health and consumer protection. International regulatory frameworks from major gaming markets were also reviewed to identify effective harm reduction strategies. Results Structural game elements, monetization strategies, and socio-environmental factors play a significant role in contributing to harm related to gaming. On an international scale, harm reduction strategies such as playtime restrictions, responsible gaming tools, and financial limits have proven effective in mitigating problematic gaming behavior. Recommendation India’s regulatory framework should incorporate harm reduction policies to address gaming addiction and financial risks effectively. Developing evidence-based taxation models is essential to prevent tax evasion while ensuring sustainable industry growth. Additionally, public awareness campaigns must be implemented to educate users on responsible gaming practices. Strengthening the governance of self-regulatory bodies is also crucial to enforcing ethical game design and enhancing player protection measures. Conclusion A balanced regulatory approach integrating public health considerations, economic feasibility, and international best practices is crucial for safeguarding users while ensuring the sustainable development of India’s gaming industry.