During an interview with TechGraph, Roland Landers, CEO of the All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), spoke about the federation’s commitment to distinguishing skill-based gaming from gambling, and about the AIGF’s initiatives aimed at educating stakeholders and promoting a secure and fair gaming environment in India.
Read the complete interview:
TechGraph: The online gaming industry in India has experienced exponential growth over the past few years. What do you see as the primary drivers behind this boom, and where do you envision the sector heading over the next five years?
Roland Landers: The remarkable growth of India’s online gaming industry is driven by several interlinked factors. Affordable smartphones and widespread internet access have democratized gaming, allowing millions to participate.
India’s young, tech-savvy population, combined with increasing disposable income, has further fuelled this expansion.
The rise of real-money gaming (RMG) and other skill-based platforms has opened new revenue streams, making the industry highly attractive to both domestic and international investors. Over the next five years, the sector is expected to continue its meteoric rise.
Emerging technologies such as blockchain-based Web3 games, AR, and VR are likely to redefine gaming experiences. Additionally, Indian companies are increasingly eyeing global markets, with the potential for locally developed games to gain a larger international foothold. By 2026, the industry is projected to achieve a valuation of around $5 billion, with RMG driving the majority of revenue growth.
TechGraph: As the industry rapidly expands, regulatory frameworks have become a critical focus. How is AIGF collaborating with policymakers to develop a balanced, growth-friendly regulatory environment for online gaming in India?
Roland Landers: At AIGF, we actively engage with stakeholders across the online gaming ecosystem to monitor trends, address challenges, and foster a safe and responsible environment. Our collaboration with policymakers focuses on striking a balance between fostering innovation and addressing key concerns, including player protection, responsible gaming, and financial integrity.
We aim to ensure that regulations are transparent and standardized, creating an environment where businesses, players, and the government can collectively benefit. A structured framework not only safeguards players but also enhances investor confidence, positioning India as a thriving hub for online gaming. By maintaining proactive dialogue with policymakers, we are committed to shaping a regulatory landscape that promotes sustainable growth without stifling creativity or innovation.
TechGraph: The distinction between skill-based gaming and gambling remains a hotly debated topic. How does AIGF work to educate both the public and regulators about this difference?
Roland Landers: Distinguishing skill-based gaming from gambling is one of AIGF’s core priorities. Indian jurisprudence has established a clear distinction, recognizing that games of skill are characterized by the predominance of skill over chance. However, there is still a lack of awareness among stakeholders, and misconceptions persist.
AIGF works tirelessly to educate both regulators and the public about these differences through advocacy, awareness campaigns, and workshops. We also engage with our members to promote transparency and fairness, ensuring that platforms adhere to high standards of integrity. Our efforts are aimed at building trust among players and regulators alike, reinforcing the legitimacy of skill-based gaming as a credible and enjoyable activity.
TechGraph: With the rise of online gaming, concerns around data privacy and responsible gaming are gaining prominence. What steps is AIGF taking to address these challenges?
Roland Landers: The rapid expansion of online gaming has brought issues such as data privacy and responsible gaming to the forefront. AIGF is committed to addressing these challenges proactively. We advocate for robust data protection measures aligned with India’s evolving privacy laws, including the implementation of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act.
A standardized mechanism ensures player safety, boosts investor confidence, and promotes a secure ecosystem. On the responsible gaming front, AIGF leads by example through self-regulation initiatives. Our members are encouraged to adopt features such as spending limits, cooling-off periods, and age verification to prevent misuse and promote healthier gaming habits. By prioritizing these issues, we aim to create a safe and inclusive gaming environment that benefits all stakeholders.
TechGraph: India is witnessing a surge in innovative gaming startups. What role does AIGF play in supporting these emerging companies, and what trends in this space excite you the most?
Roland Landers: Startups are vital to innovation, and their success brings vibrancy to the ecosystem. AIGF actively supports emerging gaming startups by providing mentorship, regulatory insights, and networking opportunities with established industry players.
Many of our member companies are deeply involved in nurturing local talent, collaborating with Indian developers, and investing in creative solutions tailored to the Indian market. These larger companies leverage their understanding of the domestic market to drive growth and innovation in the sector.
What is exciting is to see the diversity of trends–hyper-casual games tailored for regional audiences, culturally infused content, and continuous innovation in loved skill games. Web3 and blockchain technology are also beginning to make inroads, while AR and VR have the potential to redefine immersive gaming experiences. By fostering these trends, Indian startups can make their mark not only domestically but also on the global stage.
TechGraph: Indian gamers are increasingly engaging with global platforms, while local companies are rising to the challenge of competing internationally. How do you see Indian gaming companies positioning themselves on the global stage?
Roland Landers: Indian gaming companies are leveraging their deep understanding of local sensibilities to develop games that resonate globally. This cultural insight, combined with the adoption of international best practices, has enabled them to compete effectively on the global stage. Many companies are investing in international publishing arms, game studios, and partnerships with indie developers.
These initiatives not only enhance their global footprint but also showcase India’s creative and technical expertise. The next five years will likely see Indian-made games achieving global success, further establishing the country as a significant player in the global gaming industry.
TechGraph: Looking ahead, what opportunities do you believe remain untapped in India’s online gaming ecosystem? On the flip side, what are the most pressing challenges that require immediate attention?
Roland Landers: India’s online gaming ecosystem is brimming with untapped potential. The regional gaming market, with its demand for vernacular content, remains largely unexplored. Similarly, esports and skill-based games are gaining traction as professional career options, offering unique opportunities for players and developers.
Indigenous game development also holds promise for showcasing India’s creativity on a global stage. However, significant challenges remain. Regulatory ambiguity and the stigma surrounding certain gaming formats continue to hinder the industry’s growth. Offshore betting and gambling platforms, which often operate without proper oversight, pose risks to user safety and the reputation of legitimate operators.
Additionally, building a skilled workforce to meet the demands of advanced technologies is critical. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach involving the government, industry leaders, and civil society. By tackling these issues, we can unlock the full potential of India’s online gaming industry.
