India is among the largest betting markets globally, with over 140 people regularly engaging in sports wagering and other related activities. Unsurprisingly, the rise of digital bookmakers, complemented by quick technological advancement, has brought significant shifts to the local iGaming sector. Customers are increasingly engaging in mobile betting, with multiple operators offering downloadable applications. While the government is considering a new, more restrictive legal framework, Indian residents actively join offshore sportsbooks and place predictions on popular disciplines hassle-free. It’s time to discover the key trends that affect user habits and drive further evolution.
A Legal Turning Point
The Indian online betting sector has long been based on the outdated regulation, the 1867 Act, which has no mention of the digital niche. This legal gap gave the green light for offshore companies that have been on the rise till now. The shift in the regulatory landscape was recently initiated, and the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act is the new framework introduced by the government in 2025. This document provides a comprehensive outline of licensing requirements, activity classification, and local operator requirements. Unlike previous frameworks that tried to differentiate between games of skill and games of chance, this legislation takes a hardline stance: if real money is involved, it’s banned. This includes poker, rummy, fantasy cricket, and even online lotteries.
It’s exciting that the law doesn’t penalize participation in gambling and betting activities. Instead, it criminalized advertising and processing payments in related entertainment options. However, these restrictions only concern domestic online bookmakers, while overseas platforms are still accessible in the state. Betting fans can download the 1xBet app India and explore multiple markets, thrilling promotions, and regular tournaments, at the same time enjoyinga perfectly compatible interface and smooth navigation. The broad accessibility of offshore sportsbooks is beneficial for punters in the country, as an increasing number of residents opt for IPL wagers or other high-risk entertainment opportunities.
Decrease in Betting Platforms and Market Contraction
Before the new regulatory act, some forms of gambling were allowed in India. For instance, users could take advantage of Fantasy Sports Leagues or horse racing betting. The country used to focus on a clear distinction between the games of chance vs games of skill, which has been driving decades-long bans. In 2025, major platforms that were considered legal in the state suspended their operations after the initiative was accepted. However, it doesn’t mean that betting activities will slightly disappear from the region, as user interest in this pastime hasn’t decreased. Instead, punters are shifting to overseas mobile sites that offer flexibility and freedom. In the long run, this decision will bring negative consequences for the government, as the ban excludes the possibility of generating additional budget income through taxation. In addition, this approach can lead to a lack of control over users’ actions that can worsen the situation with compulsive disorders.
How User Behavior Is Changing
Several decades ago, betting enthusiasts could only take advantage of physical destinations to place predictions on their favorite sports. However, the situation has changed significantly: the appearance and rapid evolution of online bookmakers have made this pastime more accessible than ever before. The rise of mobile-adapted versions boosted user interest in sports wagering. Smartphone-optimized applications have become the most common way of interacting with digital sportsbooks.
However, the ban on all forms of gambling brings significant transformations to the market. Indian users are selecting non-monetary entertainment opportunities so as not to break the law but still enjoy the activity. Social gaming, where players earn badges or non-transferable points, is seeing a rise in popularity.
The Boom in Innovations
Indian gaming platforms aren’t stopping their activities in the market; instead, they are seeking ways to remain competitive without violating legal requirements. The rise in skill-based games is conditioned by higher gamification: operators offer badges, leaderboards, and competitive ranking systems to attract more customers. While domestic sites don’t offer real-money wins, many players continue to engage just to gain recognition. Payment innovations are also under development. UPI and other systems widespread in India are no longer available for gambling and betting transactions; some apps are experimenting with blockchain-based rewards systems or specific financial ecosystems that operate within legal grey zones.
What’s Next?
The future of mobile betting in India is still unclear, as regulations are weak and have significant loopholes. Additionally, the new law can introduce multiple pitfalls to the country’s socioeconomic climate. Since many gambling advocates are against a restrictive framework, the industry may face the following changes in the upcoming years:
- Legal challenges. Many users claim that the new laws violate their digital freedom and create petitions to reverse the ban on online betting
- User education. India may focus on increasing awareness about the risks of illegal activities and potential financial and mental health consequences
- Technological adaptability. In 2026, in-country platforms are projected to concentrate on boosting transparency and data protection
India is among the evolving betting markets, with an increased population’s interest in this entertainment. As the new regulations have just been introduced, multiple amendments will possibly be implemented soon.