The Rise of Mobile Gambling in India: What to Expect

Mobile gambling in India has witnessed a massive surge in popularity in the last few years, overtaking traditional betting.

Thanks to its burgeoning population with access to mobile devices and cheap internet, India has seen a massive rise in smartphone gambling. This is also due to the mobile betting apps that are almost omnipresent now.

Read on as we explore the steep rise, explain legal issues in mobile gambling India, and discuss the future.

Why Mobile Gambling is Booming in India?

According to World Population Prospects for 2022, India is currently the most populous country. The stats show over 1.4 billion people, of whom 65% are below 35. It is a wonderful opportunity for betting providers, as they can easily target many internet-savvy youngsters.

However, it is not just the young population; there are other factors that directly or indirectly contribute to why mobile gambling is popular in India.

Smartphone and Internet Penetration

India will become the world's third-largest economy by the end of this decade. This is due to massive large-scale digitisation and the availability of cheap internet and mobile devices. As of 2023, the Indian smartphone penetration rate is almost 71%, and the total number of smartphone users is estimated to be over 600 million. 

High-speed 4G and 5G internet technology has significantly improved internet connectivity nationwide. The average revenue realisation per subscriber for per gigabyte (GB) wireless data ranges from ₹8.7 to ₹10.4, making India one of the most affordable mobile data markets globally. 

Customers can access mobile gambling platforms seamlessly, regardless of location, leading to the rise of mobile betting in India. 

Cultural Factors

India has a deep-rooted obsession with sports, especially cricket and kabaddi. The 2023 Cricket World Cup Final match between India and Australia had a combined viewership of 360 million across satellite TV and streaming services. 

Kabaddi is an indigenous sport that naturally caters to the rural Indian population. However, with the formation of the Pro Kabaddi League, the sport has now seen an increase in its fan-following pan India. 

With celebrities and well-known media personnel sponsoring these sports, their scale and reach are bound to grow.

Online betting apps in India provide a unique opportunity for fans to watch their favourite sports and bet. They can bet on match outcomes, individual player performance, and various other betting markets. Thus, India offers excellent business opportunities for betting companies.

Digital Payment Methods

Secure and convenient payment options have been the biggest roadblock for online gambling apps for a long time. Even the most enthusiastic gamblers worldwide are sceptical of using online payments.  

With modern, highly secure online payment systems like Google Pay, Paytm, PhonePe, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and cryptocurrencies, India is now a unique prospect for mobile gambling.  

The country’s population is accustomed to these payment methods in their daily transactions and is quite familiar with them. The betting companies have successfully leveraged this fact by incorporating UPI payment apps. With UPI being widely accepted across India, it is convenient for users to deposit and withdraw funds through them.

Increased Acceptance

Gambling in India has traditionally been a social taboo. However, the rising mobile gambling trends in India have somewhat quelled this stigma. Many factors are contributing to its increasing acceptance.  

The gambling audience is primarily liberal youngsters. They see it as a fun activity that lets them make quick money.  

The mobile betting apps invite Indian celebrities to advertise their gambling platforms. Dream11, a popular fantasy sports platform, has secured the rights to be the lead sponsor of the Indian cricket team from 2023 to 2027. Such sponsorships significantly normalise such apps and have reduced the negative perceptions surrounding gambling activities.

Current Trends in Mobile Gambling

Online gambling trends in India are not just restricted to sports betting but have branched into various activities. Let us take a look at some of the most popular online gambling forms in India.

Sports Betting

Much of the Indian mobile gambling scene is consolidated within sports betting. It was valued at USD 2.85 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 5.55 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.89%. Cricket and kabaddi drive much of this popularity. 

Interestingly, the Indian sports gambling scene is not merely focused on traditional betting market predictions but is more about fantasy sports. Such platforms have gained immense popularity, contributing to the growth of the online gaming industry.

Casino Games

Casino games, although less popular than sports betting, still have a significant following in India. Gambling sites have developed online versions of conventional Indian gambling games like Rummy and Teen Patti to attract the Indian audience. Many traditional games, such as Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat, are available online in virtual and live formats. Also, TV shows are being adapted to play in the live casinos to provide an interactive atmosphere to the gamblers while betting.

Moreover, traditional slot machines have made it big in the online space, attracting bettors all over due to their easy and quick gameplay.

In-Play Betting 

Live betting presents players with a dynamic and fast-paced gambling experience. Players can bet in real-time when the sport is underway, and they are constantly on their toes as the odds fluctuate at any moment, offering a thrilling, adrenaline-pumping betting experience. 

Betting Apps & Platforms 

Let's examine some betting apps and platforms famous in the online Indian gambling market.

• 1xBet: Known for its wide range of sports betting markets and casino games.
• Parimatch: A popular platform offering competitive odds and a user-friendly interface.
• MostBet: Offers a variety of sports betting options, including cricket, football, and kabaddi.
• 10Cric: A cricket-focused platform with a strong emphasis on Indian sports.
• Betway: A global betting brand with a significant presence in India.
• Dream11: The most popular fantasy sports platform in India, offering a wide range of sports, including cricket, football, kabaddi, and basketball.
• MyTeam11: A strong contender in the fantasy sports market, known for its user-friendly interface and exciting contests.
• Paytm First Games: A versatile platform that offers fantasy sports and other casual and skill-based games.
• MPL (Mobile Premier League): A multi-game platform that includes fantasy sports, esports, and other mobile games.

Challenges and Concerns in Mobile Gambling

The gambling scene in India was relatively untapped compared to Western countries. It has seen unprecedented growth lately, which has also led to legal challenges and concerns.

Legal Ambiguity

Online gambling in India is unregulated, although laws are in place, they are ambiguous. Gambling laws in India are a state subject, and each state's government can define their own version. 

Gambling is banned under the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which is followed by most Indian states. However, some states have legalised lotteries, while others have allowed physical casinos as long as they do not operate on land. Most states have not outright banned gambling online; some have detailed, clear, stringent regulations, but those aren’t implemented yet.

Mobile gambling apps have successfully used this loophole to operate freely in India. Also, the government lacks the technical infrastructure to ban such sites or impose penalties on players using them. 

Responsible Gambling

Undoubtedly, mobile gambling offers entertainment and potential financial rewards. However, it's crucial to address the risks associated with addiction and the lack of robust, responsible gambling measures.

Some possible risks of addiction are:

• Financial Ruin: Excessive gambling can lead to significant economic losses, debt, and bankruptcy.   
• Mental Health Issues: Gambling addiction can trigger mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and stress.
• Relationship Breakdown: Overindulgence can strain personal relationships and lead to family disputes.

Now, the reasons behind the slack in responsible gambling measures in India are:

• Limited Awareness: Many people in India are unaware of the dangers of gambling addiction and are unaware of the resources available for help.
• Insufficient Treatment Options: There is a lack of specialised treatment centres and trained professionals to address gambling addiction in India.
• Weak Regulatory Oversight: Lack of stringent regulations and enforcement mechanisms contribute to irresponsible gambling practices.

Security & Privacy

With the popularity of mobile gambling apps in India, concerns around data theft are rising. Data security and privacy concerns become crucial since these platforms collect and store sensitive personal and financial information. The possible security risks can come in the following forms:

• Cyberattacks: Online gambling platforms are prone to cyberattacks, such as hacking, phishing, and malware.
• Data Breaches: A data breach can expose user information, including personal and financial information, to malicious actors.
• Weak Security Measures: Inadequate security measures, such as weak passwords or outdated software, can leave platforms vulnerable to attacks.
• Data Sharing: Some platforms may share user data with third-party partners, raising concerns about privacy and misuse.
• Tracking and Profiling: User data may be used to track online behaviour and create detailed user profiles, which can be exploited for targeted advertising or other purposes.
• Lack of Transparency: Many platforms are not transparent about their data collection and usage practices, leaving users unaware of how they handle their information.

What to Expect in the Future of Mobile Gambling in India?

Online gambling trends India are continually showing a massive upturn in numbers. According to a report by KPMG, the Indian online gambling market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20% in 2025. 

These numbers show that mobile gambling is here to stay. However, changes are inevitable for a sustainable future.

Potential Regulatory Changes

The Indian administration must take a closer look at the current state of online gambling in the country. It simply cannot let the mobile gambling scene work as it has over the past few years. There has to be some sort of regulation, considering a big chunk of the Indian population is involved now, to protect them from financial and mental health concerns.

The first order of business for the Indian government must be to recognise the big players in the Indian mobile gambling sector and bring them under proper legal jurisdiction. The concept of gambling has come a long way since 1865. Laws should be updated to address the concerns of gambling companies and modern Indian bettors to regulate the trending online gambling scene. 

The government must introduce licensing requirements for online gambling operators, which could involve taxes on operators and gambling winnings. It will generate revenue for the government and ensure operators adhere to basic social norms and standards. Stricter regulations must be imposed to prevent underage gambling and promote responsible gambling practices.

Technological Advances

Modern gambling operators have successfully used technology to their advantage. This collaboration has virtually transformed the industry; experts believe it is just the beginning. Key technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual and augmented reality, and blockchain, are poised to significantly impact the industry in the near future.  

With the help of AI algorithms and machine learning, betting companies can analyse player behaviour, preferences, and betting patterns to tailor gaming experiences. Virtual and Augmented reality create a more engaging virtual gambling experience. Also, blockchain technology is increasingly accepted at online casinos for its security, transparency, and speed compared to traditional payment methods.

Market Expansion

The unregulated nature of mobile gambling apps in India makes predictions difficult. However, we have examined the scarce data available and have a rough estimation of future trends in the Indian gambling industry.

Emphasis on Responsible Gambling

If the mobile gambling industry is to exist in India, it must do so using a systematic and sustainable model. The emphasis must shift from trying to reach the most users to a more responsible project centred around the players' well-being. The following measures promote responsible gambling among the players:

• Personalised Limits: Users can set customised deposit, loss, and time limits tailored to their needs and preferences.
• Self-Exclusion Options: Flexible self-exclusion options, ranging from temporary to permanent, can help users take a break or completely stop gambling.
• Reality Checks: Regular reminders about the time and money spent can help players stay aware while gambling.
• Educational Content: Celebrities who advertise gambling apps must also provide clear and accessible information about responsible gambling, odds, and the risks of addiction.
• Support Resources: The apps should provide easy access to helplines, counselling services, and support groups for vulnerable players.
• Adherence to Regulations: Strict acceptance of regulatory guidelines, including age verification and responsible gaming standards, should be a priority. 
• Industry-wide Initiatives: Collaboration between responsible gambling associations and betting regulatory bodies can develop best practices based on shared knowledge.

Final thought

The country's growing digital landscape and the increasing appetite for online entertainment provide great expansion opportunities for the mobile gambling industry. With the widespread availability of smartphones and affordable internet, the young and tech-savvy population is set to fuel the growth.

However, the focus should now shift to the challenges and concerns of mobile gambling regarding stricter regulations and the security of the user's confidential data. The government must implement robust regulations and promote responsible gaming practices. 

India must harness the growth of mobile gambling apps while minimising the associated risks. The right balance can protect the interests of all stakeholders and ensure a sustainable future for this growing industry.