Gambling has been popular in India since ancient times: people used to play primitive board and dice games. The trend has been shaping the country’s culture for centuries, with different forms of this entertainment emerging throughout humanity’s evolution. At the beginning of the 21st century, the industry’s evolution reached its peak with the implementation of digital casinos. While this trend attracts millions of people, many are concerned about its harmful impact on mental health. The iGaming sector remains unregulated in India, which is why the question of coping with compulsive gambling problems is on the agenda in the country.
The Gambling Landscape in India
Currently, the country doesn’t have a unified framework and a regulatory body that supervises the industry. The Public Gambling Act of 1867 remains the only document that governs the sector. It’s obvious that it’s outdated, as it has no mentions of iGaming, which is now on the rise in India. Millions of locals reportedly engage in online casinos, making the sector a legal grey area in the region. The boom in mobile applications drives the industry forward, but their risks are also discussed nationwide.
The round-the-clock access to the best casino games and a variety of betting markets encourages users to try this form of entertainment. Gambling requires initial investments, and losing control is really easy in a world full of exciting offers and unlimited content. Stakeholders are concerned about the growing number of players suffering from gambling disorders, and this problem should be addressed as soon as possible.
The Role of Responsible Gambling in the Evolving Indian Market
The rapid growth of the iGaming sector is conditioned by the growing number of online casinos operating in the state and millions of users who get smooth access to digital services. The Indian market is estimated to reach $8.6 billion by the end of 2027, with betting, casinos, and fantasy sports leading the charge. Most service providers design games to engage customers for as long as possible. At the same time, leading platforms like 1xBet India inform users about the importance of being responsible. Still, the lack of control over users’ actions and the absence of responsible gambling promotions can lead to negative consequences.
Mental Health Consequences
When used responsibly, online casinos and betting services are safe. However, many users tend to overspend in attempts to recoup their losses, which is characterized as chasing losses. This behavior often results in compulsive disorders, heavily affecting people’s mental health. Many gambling addicts are stressed and suffer from depression, which leads to a decreased quality of life. A lack of awareness and social support makes it difficult for people to come forward and seek help. Promoting responsible gambling should be the main priority for authorities governing the iGaming sector to ensure a healthy approach to this activity.
Youngsters Are at Higher Risk
In India, increased youth engagement in gambling has been witnessed in recent years. The technological advancement around online casinos and bookmakers drives their attention, encouraging them to try all the innovative features. Younger adults are more likely to accept risks without making well-thought-out decisions. At the same time, they lack financial stability and often continue to gamble even when they cannot afford it. Informing them about the risks of uncontrolled spending and initiating special support problems for youngsters is a viable solution for India, but the country still doesn’t have the legal basis for such a solution.
Steps Towards Responsible Gambling Culture
Many would say that restricting all gambling-related activities is a way to cope with the problem and develop a healthier society. However, a regulated industry brings numerous benefits, including additional income to the budget, which is generated through taxes. Moreover, the black market continues to exist, and the total ban on online casinos may encourage customers to seek illegal alternatives. India can consider other countries’ examples and implement the following tools to promote safer gaming:
- Public awareness campaigns. The government should collaborate with licensed platforms to advertise responsible gambling behaviors and highlight the need to stay in control and seek support when a person experiences any signs of compulsive disorders.
- Self-exclusion programs. Many states have integrated nationwide self-exclusions, and India can consider this example. Limitations aren’t perceived positively, but they are effective in treating gambling-related problems.
- On-site protection tools. Operators should be obliged to offer deposit/loss limits and alert customers when they notice excessive gambling. AI technologies can cope with this task, as they provide round-the-clock monitoring and can identify problem patterns.
- Broader collaboration with mental health services. While awareness campaigns help prevent compulsive disorders, they aren’t always efficient. In this case, support groups and treatment organizations should be available nationwide to assist users in their recovery.
Stronger regulatory oversight remains the primary issue that needs to be addressed in India. Currently, gambling remains a grey zone, which makes the market more volatile. The implementation of a comprehensive legal framework that covers all aspects of the industry will benefit both operators and Indian residents.
