The surge of online gaming in India has not only created new digital opportunities but also raised serious health and social concerns. In 2025, the government has intensified its focus on youth addiction, with several state governments and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) calling for urgent measures to regulate online gaming.
📌 The Growing Problem
According to a WHO (World Health Organization) report, “gaming disorder” has been officially classified as a mental health condition, defined by impaired control over gaming, priority given to gaming over daily activities, and continuation despite negative consequences (source: WHO).
In India, cases of excessive gaming have made headlines, with young users spending hours on online platforms—leading to:
- Poor academic performance.
- Social withdrawal.
- Sleep disorders.
- Financial losses from in-app purchases and real-money games.
📌 State Governments Take Action
- Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have attempted to ban online games like rummy and poker, citing increasing cases of addiction-related debt and suicides among youth.
- Karnataka introduced restrictions but faced legal challenges, with the courts ruling that blanket bans were unconstitutional (source: The Hindu).
These actions reflect the growing consensus that youth protection must be a priority.
📌 Government & Health Ministry Response
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has issued advisories on responsible screen time and digital addiction, particularly for children and teenagers (source: MoHFW).
In addition, the Ministry of Education has launched awareness programs to guide students about the risks of excessive gaming.
📌 The Balance Between Regulation & Innovation
While bans may curb harmful practices, experts argue that a balanced approach is needed—one that promotes responsible gaming without stifling innovation.
This is where compliant platforms such as Laser247 come into play. By emphasizing security, transparency, and responsible usage, platforms can align with government efforts while providing users with safe digital experiences.
📌 What Parents & Users Can Do
- Set Screen-Time Limits → Encourage balanced routines.
- Educate About Risks → Make young users aware of potential dangers.
- Choose Verified Platforms → Use only platforms that comply with KYC and government regulations.
📌 Looking Forward
India’s upcoming national gaming policy framework is expected to include special provisions for protecting minors, including parental controls and strict KYC verification. The government hopes that such measures will curb addiction while allowing the industry to grow responsibly.
✅ Conclusion
The government’s concern about online gaming and youth addiction reflects a growing global problem. By combining health advisories, state-level laws, and a national policy framework, India aims to create a safer digital environment for its youth.
Responsible platforms like Laser247 show how digital innovation can move forward without compromising user well-being.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not promote or endorse online gaming, betting, or gambling activities.
