Winzo, one of India’s fastest-growing online gaming platforms, offers a mix of skill-based and casual games, many with monetary rewards. However, under the new Online Gaming Bill 2025, any platform involving real-money wagering is prohibited.
The Bill also places restrictions on advertisements promoting money games, further affecting Winzo’s marketing operations. While some free-to-play and social games may continue, its high-stakes gaming formats would need to be removed or completely redesigned to align with the law.
Bill’s Impact
- Real-money contests across all categories will be prohibited.
- Social and skill-based gaming without cash prizes may still be allowed.
WinZO Might:
- Switch to a subscription model where users pay a fixed fee for unlimited access.
- Expand into e-sports tournaments where players compete for recognition, not money.
- For Winzo, the Bill represents both a challenge and an opportunity – a challenge to comply with new restrictions, and an opportunity to build a sustainable model focusing on esports and non-monetary entertainment.
What Is Online Gaming Bill 2025?
On August 20th, 2025, the Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw tabled the Online Gaming Bill in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, even as the Opposition continued its protests. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, was passed by voice vote. Outlining the objectives of the bill, the Union Minister said that the government aims to promote online social games and esports.
The bill prohibits all forms of online money gaming, regardless of whether it is based on skill, chance, or a combination of both. However, esports and social games are allowed with subscription-based access. The legislation, introduced earlier in the day, was cleared after the Cabinet approved it.
The Online Gaming Bill 2025 prohibits online games that involve monetary stakes, due to concerns such as financial losses, addiction, etc. It imposes a blanket ban on all forms of online betting and gambling. This includes: Fantasy sports, Card games such as poker and rummy, Online lotteries.
Additionally, it also restricts advertisements promoting such games. Banks and financial institutions are barred from processing or facilitating transactions related to these games.
Violators may face imprisonment of up to three years or a fine of up to Rs 1 crore, once the bill is passed in both the Houses of Parliament.
