Is Gambling Legal in India? Casino Rules, Aviator Apps, and Betting Laws (2025)
Understanding Gambling Laws in India
In India, gambling means risking money or something valuable on an uncertain outcome. Certain forms of gambling are legal and regulated, while others are restricted depending on the state or union territory.
Each region sets its own laws, and operators must hold proper licences. This guide explains what gambling is legal in India, how casino and betting laws work, and where online play fits in 2025.
What Is Gambling?
Gambling generally includes three key elements:
- Stake: Wagering money or something of value.
- Risk: Accepting an uncertain outcome.
- Prize: Winning a reward if the outcome is favorable.
The result might occur instantly – as in a card game or slot spin – or over time, such as in sports or horse racing bets.
What Gambling Is Legal in India?
India does not have a single nationwide gambling law. Instead, each state determines its own rules.
The key distinction lies between:
- Games of Skill – Legal under most frameworks (e.g., rummy, poker, fantasy sports).
Games of Chance – Typically restricted or banned (e.g., flush, bingo, roulette).
Forms of Legal Gambling in India
1. Casinos
Casinos operate legally in Goa and Sikkim.
They are licensed to function within five-star hotels or offshore ships.
Operators must follow strict compliance rules regarding taxation, operations, and customer verification.
Are casinos legal in India?
✅ Yes – but only in select states with official licences.
2. Aviator Game
The Aviator game has gained significant popularity in India.
It’s a timing-based crash game where a multiplier rises as a virtual plane ascends.
Players must cash out before the plane disappears – balancing risk and timing.
Why it’s legal: Aviator is often classified as a skill-based format and can be legally offered on licensed casino platforms in Goa and Sikkim.
Tip: Look for platforms that offer Aviator bonuses or welcome promos to extend your playtime.
3. Horse Racing & Sports Betting
Horse racing is recognized as a game of skill and is therefore legal. Bets can be placed through registered turf clubs or online platforms licensed by Sikkim.
Sports betting, on the other hand, remains largely restricted – though Sikkim permits it under a state-issued licence.
Is betting legal in India?
✅ Yes, but only in regulated formats and specific states.
4. Poker & Other Card Games
Poker is legally recognized as a game of skill in several Indian states such as Nagaland, Sikkim, and Gujarat. Operators must acquire a state gaming licence to host poker rooms or online poker platforms.
5. Lotteries
The Lotteries (Regulation) Act, 1998 allows state-run lotteries across India. Each state controls its lottery system. Private lotteries, however, remain prohibited in most regions.
6. Fantasy Sports
Fantasy gaming platforms – including cricket and football fantasy leagues – are legal in many Indian states when defined as skill-based games. In Nagaland and Sikkim, operators must hold a valid fantasy sports licence to operate.
Legal Framework for Gambling in India
The Public Gambling Act, 1867
India’s foundational law on gambling, the Public Gambling Act, prohibits public gaming houses but allows states to make exceptions. This is why Goa and Sikkim can legally host casinos under regulated conditions.
Games of Skill vs. Games of Chance
| Category | Description | Examples |
| Games of Skill | Rely mainly on strategy, decision-making, and knowledge | Rummy, Poker, Horse Racing, Aviator |
| Games of Chance | Depend on luck or random outcomes | Teen Patti, Roulette, Bingo, Flush |
Aviator is widely considered a skill-oriented game that relies on focus and timing – making it compliant with regulations in states where gambling is licensed.
Online Gambling in India
The Public Gambling Act doesn’t explicitly mention online gambling, leaving it in a grey area.
However, two major laws impact online casino operations:
- IT Act, 2000: Allows authorities to block unlicensed or illegal sites.
- Banking Regulations: Limit payment processing for unlicensed operators.
There’s no federal ban on online gambling, meaning players can legally access licensed offshore casino platforms that accept Indian payments and comply with KYC norms.
Types of Legal Gambling in India (2025 Overview)
| Format | Legal Status | Where Legal | Licensing Authority |
| Casinos | Legal | Goa, Sikkim | State Governments |
| Horse Racing | Legal (skill-based) | Multiple states | Turf Clubs / Sikkim |
| Sports Betting | Partially legal | Sikkim only | State Licence |
| Poker | Legal (skill-based) | Nagaland, Sikkim, Gujarat | State Licences |
| Crash Games (Aviator) | Legal under licence | Goa & Sikkim | Licensed Casinos |
| Bingo | Mostly restricted | Limited exceptions | Local Authorities |
| Lotteries | Legal (state-run) | Nationwide | State Governments |
| Fantasy Sports | Legal (skill-based) | Multiple states | Nagaland, Sikkim |
Gambling Licences in India
- Casinos: Goa and Sikkim issue official licences.
- Poker: Licence required in Sikkim, Nagaland, Gujarat.
- Sports Betting: Legal in Sikkim under state-issued licences.
- Lotteries: Operated by state governments.
- Fantasy Sports: Licensed under skill-based gaming acts.
Taxation on Gambling and Betting in India (2025)
- Income Tax: Winnings above ₹10,000 are subject to 30% TDS deducted at source.
- GST: A 28% GST applies to casinos, betting, and gambling services.
- Equalization Levy: A 2% tax applies to foreign websites offering gambling to Indian users.
FAQs: Legal Gambling in India
1. Is gambling legal in India?
Gambling is legal only in certain states like Goa and Sikkim. Other states may restrict or ban it depending on local laws.
2. Are online casinos legal in India?
There’s no nationwide ban. Players can use international casino sites that are licensed and compliant with Indian financial laws.
3. Is the Aviator game legal in India?
Yes, when played on licensed casino platforms in Goa and Sikkim. Aviator is classified as a skill-based game.
4. Can I bet legally on sports or horse racing?
Horse racing is legal across India as a skill game. Sports betting is allowed only in Sikkim with a valid state licence.
5. How is gambling income taxed in India?
A 30% income tax applies to winnings above ₹10,000, plus 28% GST on gambling services. Offshore platforms may face a 2% equalization levy.
