Technological advances in educational and social spheres have helped rural and poor communities narrow the gap to their urban counterparts. Most of these digital solutions are, however, put forth by real-life businesses that invest, innovate and need a clear regulatory framework to continue growing.

 

 

Much has been written on the importance of technology as a disruptor of stagnant economic models and, more recently, as a counterweight to social inequality.The digital transition might have enriched some of the tech giants – mostly offshore-based – but it has brought significant advantages to less privileged users by allowing them to stay connected and acquire some practical education and skills.

 

Being able to work and play remotely generates more economic opportunities. Being able to stay in touch with friends and relatives promotes creativity and social cohesion. Technology has been a proven game-changer for a number of years and it is increasingly in the hands of smaller businesses and user groups.

 

All along, real-world practices have been putting pressure not only on economic and educational models but also on outdated legal definitions and political standpoints. Technological and societal transformation cannot wait around for regulatory voids to be filled where certain business concepts did not exist, they require frequent updates and flexible public policy.

 

India has passed 420 million online gamers in 2021 and it is expected to reach 500 million by the end of this year. Huge gaming communities play casual mobile games, fantasy leagues and real money online roulette. Many are in Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities but rural gamers catch up fast in absolute numbers. Bharat’s mobile gaming market is upwards of $2 billion and is expected to triple by 2025.

 

The general excitement wanes a little for those wishing to pay for gaming content or prize pools, as many states openly try to ban or publically disapprove of real-money games. “Moralistic” views of paid gaming – an authentic desi tradition – leads many of them to seek offshore and black market alternatives where they are truly unprotected and everyone loses.

 

Just like with alcohol, experts remind, children need to be protected. When thinking about gaming, however, authorities treat all Indians like children.

 

 

In the end, the tech startup ecosystem is pressured as it needs to sidestep various state-based bans and legal inconsistencies. Sadly, in the long run, this will make them less competitive and risks depriving upcoming generations of many opportunities directly related to gamification, cross-over tech genres, skills training and a large part of the digital revolution that has given so much to India in recent years.

 

 

As Felicia Wijkander (the Chief Editor at India's biggest casino comparing platform) recently pointed out, blanket bans are not and cannot be a viable solution. The approach that is needed and absolutely essential for the nation’s tech-savvy Generation Z involves a clear view on gamification and the real-money gaming sector.

Proper regulation of the gaming sector will lead to direct social and economic opportunities. India-based licensed operators stand a better chance against black market ones – and would have to pay taxes and contributions unlike offshore platforms. Crucially, consumer protection and responsible gaming are proven and meaningful steps towards putting problem gambling under control.

 

 

“Second hand” benefits need also be measured in terms of digital skills, strategy and knowledge which have become practically indispensable for upcoming generations, in both work and play.