This is how e-gaming industry plans to ensure user safety
What's the story
The All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), the E-Gaming Federation (EGF), and the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports (FIFS) have come together to sign a "Code of Ethics" (CoE) for online real money gaming companies. The CoE wants to ensure user safety and encourage responsible gaming practices. It includes KYC verification, limits on spending, age gating, and unbiased gameplay. This will protect over 50 crore Indian gamers as the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) readies new gaming regulations.
Comprehensive checks
CoE mandates annual audits and reporting
The CoE aims to ensure uniform user safety standards across the industry with responsible gaming and advertising policies. It requires annual third-party audits and detailed reporting mechanisms to maintain accountability and transparency. The framework, which is based on global best practices, lays a strong foundation for responsible gaming. The members of the gaming industry bodies include My11Circle, Dream11, Khelo Fantasy Live, WinZO, SG11 Fantasy, Junglee Games etc.
Industry impact
Safeguarding over 50 crore Indian gamers
The CoE will be applicable to all e-gaming operators that are members of the federations and provide skill-based real-money gaming services in India. Notably, the MeitY is yet to implement online gaming rules released in April 2023, further emphasizing the need for such industry-led initiatives.
State regulations
Tamil Nadu enforces strict regulations on real money games
Tamil Nadu had earlier banned Real Money Games (RMG) but later had issued stringent rules in February to regulate these gaming platforms. These include a ban on minors playing on these platforms, spending limits, as well as a blackout period from midnight to 5:00am when no logins should be allowed.
Positive reception
FIFS director general welcomes joint code
FIFS Director General Neil Castelino welcomed the joint code, considering it a major step toward creating a safe and fair gaming environment in India. The Indian gaming industry recorded revenues of $3.8 billion for FY24, witnessing a 22.6% growth over the last fiscal. This growth highlights the need for such initiatives to ensure responsible gaming practices in this fast-growing industry.