[Answered] Combating online real-money gaming addiction requires more than a ban. Examine how a comprehensive strategy of thoughtful regulation and robust prevention programmes can create a safer digital environment for India’s youth.

Introduction

According to IAMAI-Kantar 2024 report, India has over 650 million internet users, with 40% under 25. Real-money gaming’s psychological hooks resemble gambling, creating addiction risks needing nuanced regulatory and preventive responses.

Why bans alone are insufficient

1. Behavioral displacement: Addiction often shifts to other risky behaviors (pornography, substance use).
2. Evasion tactics: VPNs and offshore platforms bypass bans (Tamil Nadu’s 2023 ban challenged in courts; MeitY’s advisory).
3. Economic and skill dimensions: Gaming also supports start-ups, e-sports; indiscriminate bans harm legitimate industry.

Understanding the nature of addiction

1. Psychological mechanics: Variable reward schedules, dopamine reinforcement, gamification loops.
2. Impact on minors: Cases of debt, theft, suicide; e.g., Karnataka and UP reported minors using family funds.
3. WHO recognition: Gaming Disorder included in ICD-11 (2019), underscoring public health risk.

Comprehensive strategy components

Thoughtful Regulation

1. Age-gating and KYC norms: Mandatory Aadhaar-based verification; graded access for minors (Singapore’s parental locks).
2. Spending limits and time caps: RBI-style monetary thresholds; China’s 3-hour weekly limit model.
3. Classification and licensing: Categorize skill vs. chance; regulate like UK Gambling Commission norms.
4. Transparent grievance redressal: Ombudsman for disputes; industry self-regulation under MeitY’s IT Rules 2023 framework.

Robust Prevention and Mental Health Programmes

1. Early detection: Mental health screenings in schools; CBSE’s 2024 mental wellness modules.
2. Counselling and therapy: State-funded digital addiction clinics (Kerala, Karnataka pilot projects).
3. Awareness campaigns: Media literacy for parents and children; involvement of NGOs (Childline India, NIMHANS).
4. Community-based approaches: Peer groups, gamified de-addiction tools; collaboration with tech companies for in-game nudges.

Balancing innovation and safety

1. Economic stakes: $3.1 billion Indian gaming market (2023, KPMG); need to harness growth responsibly.
2. Constitutional concerns: Regulation must balance Article 19(1)(g) freedom to trade with Article 21 right to life and mental well-being.
3. International best practices: South Korea’s “Shutdown Law,” UK’s Gambling Act amendments, Australia’s youth digital safety codes.

Conclusion

As Shoshana Zuboff’s Surveillance Capitalism reminds us, technology shapes behavior. India’s youth need guardrails—integrating regulation, therapy, and awareness—to ensure digital growth aligns with mental well-being and public health.