"While digital sovereignty can strengthen data protection and content control, it will also create opportunities for innovation by fostering a secure and regulated environment."
From your perspective, what do you feel are the current challenges in implementing a cohesive regulatory framework for the online gaming industry in India?
The primary challenge in implementing a cohesive regulatory framework for the online gaming industry in India lies in the lack of uniformity in policies across states. This fragmented approach creates confusion and uncertainty for operators and players, hindering industry growth. Furthermore, the conflation of gambling with skill-based gaming is a critical issue that needs resolution to establish clear distinctions. Offshore operators masquerading as skill-based platforms also harm the reputation of legitimate Indian operators and must be addressed through stringent regulations.
The regulatory landscape is often slow to adapt to technological advancements, leaving gaps that can be exploited. However, initiatives such as the Intermediary Rules and the proposed establishment of Self-Regulatory Bodies (SRBs) are steps towards creating a structured and adaptive framework
These measures provide room for growth and innovation while ensuring regulatory compliance. It is imperative to establish consistent, forward-looking guidelines that foster a secure and responsible gaming ecosystem in India.
How could “digital sovereignty” influence India’s future approach to regulating the e-gaming industry particularly in terms of data privacy, content control and innovation?
Digital sovereignty will significantly influence India’s future approach to regulating the online gaming industry. The emphasis on governing data within national borders will have profound implications for data privacy, content regulation, and compliance. The DPDP Act and recently introduced DPDP rules, along with discussions around data localization, will shape how gaming platforms approach the storage and processing of user data.
While digital sovereignty can strengthen data protection and content control, it will also create opportunities for innovation by fostering a secure and regulated environment. However, these developments require careful navigation to ensure compliance does not stifle creativity or technological advancements in the gaming industry.
In your opinion, how should regulators balance the drive for innovation with the need for ethical standards in emerging areas like pay-to-play models and esports?
Regulators need to carefully balance the drive for innovation with the need to uphold ethical standards. It is essential that regulations promote fairness, consumer protection, and transparency while still allowing room for industry evolution. Platforms should implement, robust responsible gaming policies, including voluntary user limits, self-exclusion options, and mechanisms to curb addictive behaviour. At the same time, innovation should be encouraged in areas such as blockchain technology, gamification, and the creation of globally competitive game studios.
The government’s proactive stance through AVGC policies reflects a recognition of gaming as a professional pursuit and a driver of economic growth. Collaboration between regulators and industry stakeholders is key to ensuring guidelines that support ethical business practices while fostering innovation and development.
How do you view the rise of quantum computing impacting the regulatory landscape for the gaming industry, particularly in areas like encryption, fairness, and game integrity?
Quantum computing represents a transformative leap in technology, with implications that extend across various industries, including gaming. In the gaming sector, it could revolutionize areas such as encryption, fairness, and game integrity. While it may provide opportunities to develop stronger encryption techniques, it also poses the risk of rendering current cryptographic methods less effective. Additionally, the advanced computational capabilities of quantum systems could impact how games are developed and experienced, potentially raising concerns about fairness and the manipulation of outcomes. As quantum computing evolves, it will be essential for regulators to engage proactively with industry stakeholders to develop sector-specific guidelines. These frameworks should address both the opportunities and risks associated with quantum advancements, ensuring robust data protection and maintaining trust in the integrity of gaming platforms.
With AI-driven storytelling becoming mainstream, should there be policies in mandating transparency on AI’s role in influencing player decisions or outcomes?
AI-driven storytelling offers significant potential to enhance game development efficiency, enabling developers to craft more immersive and dynamic experiences. For instance, algorithms have long been used in gaming to analyse player behaviour and create balanced gameplay. The integration of AI-driven narratives represents a natural progression in advancing player engagement.
Given the rapid evolution of AI technology and its transformative potential across industries, including gaming, it is essential to approach its regulation thoughtfully. Policies should emphasize transparency by requiring platforms to disclose AI’s role in influencing game outcomes or player experiences. This will ensure players are well-informed while fostering trust in AI-driven innovations. Such an approach would allow developers to responsibly harness AI’s creative potential while maintaining ethical standards within the gaming ecosystem.
How do you see Web3.0 technologies shaping the future of the Indian online gaming ecosystem and what policy challenges might emerge from their integration?
Web 3.0 technologies, including blockchain, decentralized applications, and tokenization, are set to revolutionize the Indian online gaming ecosystem. They provide players with ownership of in-game assets, secure transactions, and the ability to participate in decentralized economies. Additionally, integrating Web 3.0 with emerging technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and the metaverse creates exciting possibilities for immersive gameplay, community-driven economies, and new forms of engagement. However, these advancements come with significant policy challenges. Regulators must address issues related to data privacy, intellectual property rights, and consumer protection in decentralized environments. The rise of digital currencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) also introduces complexities around taxation, financial regulation, and anti-money laundering measures. Policymakers must ensure that the framework for Web 3.0 adoption fosters innovation, supports fair practices, and safeguards the interests of players and the integrity of the gaming industry.
About Roland Landers:
Roland Landers is the CEO of the All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), the apex body for the Indian gaming industry. With over 23 years of experience across media, entertainment, and sports, Roland has a strong background in business strategy, marketing, brand management, sponsorship, and sales. Prior to his role at AIGF, he served as the Chief Brand Officer at Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited.
Throughout his career, Roland has played a key role in building prominent global media brands, developing statistical systems, and creating impactful intellectual properties in sports and media. He is particularly interested in digital marketing, social media strategies, and digital content creation and delivery. Roland is also a guest speaker at leading management schools in India and abroad.
