What's the news: A panel set up by the Indian government in May this year to draft policies for online gaming and gambling in the country has submitted its report recommending the creation of a separate regulatory body and framework to govern the sector and more powers to the government to prohibit certain games, Reuters reported on September 15. "The much-awaited report is seen as shaping the future of the mobile gaming industry in India, estimated to reach $5 billion by 2025, from $1.5 billion currently," Reuters added. Why does this matter: Online gaming and gambling in India remain in a state of chaos because of the lack of clear regulations. Gambling in India is a state subject, meaning the central government cannot frame regulations for the same. However, different states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have tried to regulate the sector but have had various courts strike down the regulations for being overbroad. This situation has led to the growth of spurious gambling and real money gaming apps that have cost the lives of many who grew addicted to them. There has been constant pressure from the public, civil society organisations, law enforcement agencies of various states, and gaming platforms themselves for more clear and uniform regulations. The latest report by the government-appointed panel looks to change things by recommending that the centre play a more prominent role in regulating this sector. Read: India’s Unclear Gaming And Gambling Regulations Are ‘Playing’ With Lives Highlights of the panel report: As per Reuters, which has…
