Registration now mandatory for e-sports; Online Gaming Authority of India established
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has notified new rules making registration mandatory for e-sport games and their operating firms, effective May 1. These rules serve as subordinate legislation for the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, which previously prohibited real money gaming. The Online Gaming Authority of India (OGAI) has been established as a digital organization within MeitY, including representatives from Home Affairs and Law Ministries. While e-sports registration is mandatory, registration for 'online social games' will only be required upon specific notification by the Centre. The rules also include provisions for future age classification and a 'code of practice' for video games to address addiction.
Key Points
- The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has mandated registration for e-sport games and their operating firms.
- These rules, effective May 1, are subordinate legislation for the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, which banned real money gaming.
- The Online Gaming Authority of India (OGAI) has been established as a digital organization within MeitY to oversee these regulations.
- Registration for 'online social games' is conditional upon specific notification by the Centre, while e-sports registration is mandatory.
- Future provisions allow for age classification and a 'code of practice' for video games, including those with microtransactions, to address addiction.
Exam Facts
- Rules notified by MeitY, effective May 1.
- Act: Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025.
- Authority: Online Gaming Authority of India (OGAI) under MeitY.
- OGAI includes representatives from Ministries of Home Affairs and Law.
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