Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the Indian government's introduction of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, as a measure designed to protect the nation's youth from the potential pitfalls of the digital world. Speaking during an interaction with national awardee teachers in New Delhi, Modi stressed that the law was enacted without yielding to external pressures, prioritising the long-term well-being of students and families. The legislation aims to differentiate between harmless gaming and risky gambling, ensuring that young people are shielded from addictive, financially harmful, and violent online content. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to fostering a safer digital environment while capitalising on the sector's growth potential.
The Act specifically targets online money games by imposing a ban on such activities, while actively promoting e-sports and other educational gaming formats. Modi pointed out the vast job opportunities within the global online gaming market, suggesting that India could emerge as a dominant player if the industry is managed responsibly. For instance, the law prohibits advertisements for online money games and restricts banks and financial institutions from processing transactions related to them, thereby curbing exploitation. During his remarks, the Prime Minister urged educators to inform students about the distinctions between gaming and gambling, emphasising that while gaming can drive innovation and employment, unchecked gambling has led to severe consequences, including financial ruin and family disruptions.
Modi also addressed the societal risks associated with unregulated online gaming, noting how addiction has affected individuals, including students and housewives, sometimes resulting in tragic outcomes like suicides. He called on teachers to play a pivotal role in raising awareness about these dangers, encouraging them to educate students on responsible digital habits. Furthermore, the prime minister linked this to upcoming global events, such as the inclusion of online gaming in the Olympics, stressing the need to nurture talent without allowing it to escalate into harmful dependencies. By doing so, he envisions empowering youth to explore promising careers in the expanding gaming industry.
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Beyond gaming, Modi's discussion extended to the government's efforts in promoting innovation and education, drawing inspiration from successes like the Chandrayaan mission. He highlighted initiatives such as the Atal Innovation Mission and Atal Tinkering Labs, with over 10,000 labs already established and plans for an additional 50,000. These programmes, Modi argued, depend on teachers to guide the next generation of innovators, blending technological advancement with ethical awareness. Through such measures, the government aims to create a balanced ecosystem where youth can thrive safely and contribute to India's technological leadership on the world stage.
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