In October 2025, despite a sweeping ban, real-money gaming apps remain available on Apple’s App Store in India, sparking debates over regulatory enforcement and corporate responsibility. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act 2025 (PROGA 2025) was enacted to curb real-money gaming in the country. Nevertheless, various betting apps are still functioning, even as major players in the industry have suspended operations. This situation has put Apple under the spotlight, prompting regulatory bodies to scrutinize how tech giants adhere to new gaming laws.
While prominent Indian gaming companies have left the market due to the new regulations, smaller operators persist in their activities. Following the enforcement of PROGA 2025, top platforms like Dream11, MPL, WinZO, Gameskraft, and Games24x7 ceased their services across India, citing uncertainties in enforcement and the absence of a definitive notification. However, lesser-known applications, such as Jumbo Fantasy, continue to be available on Apple’s App Store, actively onboarding new users and facilitating deposits. Industry insiders suggest that some of these companies are operating in legal ambiguities, exploiting lax enforcement.
This disparity in compliance illustrates the fragmentation within India’s real-money gaming market. The PROGA 2025 legislation, targeting all games with monetary stakes, seeks to bolster esports and social gaming. Under this law, an “online money game” is characterized as any game where players pay an entry fee, deposit funds, or wager money for potential financial gains. The penalties for non-compliance are stringent: operators face up to three years in prison or fines amounting to $1.1 million, advertisers can incur up to two years in prison or fines of $60,000, and banks and payment platforms involved in processing transactions for banned games are also subject to penalties.
While the law aims to protect users and foster innovation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded the bill as a significant stride towards positioning India as a global leader in gaming, technology, and creativity. Despite the clear objectives, the law’s implementation has generated significant uncertainty in the industry. The immediate impact of PROGA 2025 on India’s RMG (real-money gaming) sector has been severe. Within two months of the law’s passage, regulated markets witnessed the disappearance of over ₹7,440 crore ($845 million) in player deposits. Additionally, the government has reportedly forfeited approximately ₹2,082 crore ($236 million) in potential tax revenues. The sudden approval and enactment of the bill by Parliament within two days left companies with little time to adapt, affecting over 6,500 jobs as businesses halted hiring or closed operations.
This upheaval has created a ripple effect, challenging investor confidence and public trust in digital gaming regulation. Apple, in particular, is facing heightened scrutiny for allowing real-money gaming apps to remain active on its platform in India. Unlike Google, which imposes strict rules against gambling and betting apps on its Play Store, Apple continues to host several RMG titles. This inconsistency has raised concerns among regulators and lawmakers, who argue that Apple’s inaction undermines the objectives of PROGA 2025 and potentially facilitates unlawful operations.
Industry experts assert that this situation underscores a broader enforcement gap between India’s legal framework and global platform policies. As discussions continue, pressure mounts on Apple to align itself with India’s gaming legislation. The absence of a final enforcement notice has left both operators and regulators in a state of anticipation. The Indian government has yet to release the definitive enforcement notification for PROGA 2025. Concurrently, several companies have filed petitions with the Supreme Court, challenging the constitutionality of the law.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is in the process of reviewing public feedback on draft rules, with the deadline for submissions set for 31 October 2025. Just this week, MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan met with gaming associations to address concerns such as the definition of “stakes” and the compliance costs for developers. Until a clear enforcement framework is established, real-money gaming apps in India will continue to operate in a regulatory limbo. The crucial question remains: can India successfully balance innovation with integrity within its burgeoning gaming market?
While the government’s intentions are to safeguard the public and encourage legitimate gaming activities, the rapid legislative changes have left the industry in a state of flux. The potential for job creation and economic growth through the gaming sector remains significant, but the path forward requires careful navigation of both regulatory challenges and market opportunities. As one industry observer noted, the future of real-money gaming in India hinges not only on strict enforcement but also on creating a conducive environment for lawful and innovative gaming enterprises.
The contrasting views on the impact of PROGA 2025 highlight the complexities involved. On one hand, the legislation is seen as necessary to prevent gambling addiction and protect consumers. On the other, critics argue that overly stringent regulations could stifle a vibrant sector capable of fostering technological advancements and economic benefits. As India continues to refine its approach to digital gaming, striking a balance between regulation and innovation will be crucial to realizing the country’s vision of becoming a global gaming hub.
Sarah Thompson is a seasoned writer specializing in casino gaming and online gambling. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Sarah brings in-depth knowledge and a keen eye for detail to her work at CasinoNoDeposits.com. Her expertise lies in uncovering the latest no deposit bonuses and providing comprehensive reviews of online casinos. Passionate about helping players maximize their gaming experience, Sarah combines her analytical skills with a flair for engaging storytelling.
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