New Delhi — India’s online gaming industry is experiencing an unprecedented surge, with the market size expected to more than double from USD 3.8 billion in 2023 to USD 9.2 billion by 2029. At the forefront of this transformation is Bimal Julka, Chairman of the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports (FIFS), who sees digital gaming as a cornerstone of India’s digital economy.
“Online gaming is a sunrise sector for India—contributing to GDP, driving foreign and domestic investment, and creating quality digital employment,” said Julka. “With smart regulation and innovation, India has the potential to become a global gaming powerhouse.”
Key Growth Metrics
• Market Expansion: USD 3.8B (2023) → USD 9.2B (2029)
• CAGR: 20%
• Daily Active Users: 110 million
• Projected Gamers by 2028: 720 million+
Investment & Employment
• $2.8 billion invested in the last five years
• $3 billion more expected by 2030
• 500,000 digital jobs projected by 2029
India’s gaming ecosystem is also becoming a significant contributor to public finances. Between FY 2025–29, the industry is projected to generate over $11 billion in tax revenues, including $10 billion from GST and $1 billion from TDS.
Gaming now accounts for nearly 30% of India’s new media market, which includes OTT platforms, social media, animation, VFX, and audio content.
Innovation, Localization & AI Integration
Julka emphasized the importance of localized content and AI-driven innovation in shaping the future of gaming. India’s leadership in mobile gaming and fantasy sports is fueled by its ability to tailor experiences across regional languages and cultural narratives—especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
“AI, big data, and cloud gaming are reshaping how users interact with content,” Julka said. “India’s advantage lies in scale, talent, and diversity.”
This tech-enabled transformation is not just making gaming more immersive but also more participatory—thanks to the rise of user-generated content and community-driven experiences.
The Call for Responsible Gaming
As the industry grows, Julka underscores the critical importance of ethical standards and player safeguards.
“As we grow, it’s critical to maintain transparency, player protection, and ethical standards,” he said. “Responsible growth is the only sustainable path forward.”
Industry players are now implementing age gating, robust KYC mechanisms, responsible advertising, and fair gameplay protocols—all part of a broader commitment to building a safe and inclusive gaming environment.
The Road Ahead
With over a thousand gaming startups, a booming user base, and rising investor interest, India is no longer just a participant in the global gaming arena—it is rapidly becoming a leader.
Bimal Julka’s vision combines innovation, responsibility, and inclusivity—a formula that could see India’s gaming industry not only transform entertainment but also act as a powerful engine for economic growth and digital empowerment.
