India’s sports betting landscape is undergoing a pivotal transformation, driven by surging digital adoption, shifting consumer behavior, and the rise of new-age sports preferences. While cricket continues to dominate the market, disciplines like football, kabaddi, tennis, and eSports are carving out substantial niches. A blend of technological advancements, favorable demographics, and partial regulatory support has propelled the sector to a valuation of USD 6.91 billion in 2024. Yet, with outdated laws and rising concerns over illegal platforms, India finds itself at a regulatory crossroads. The future of this burgeoning market may hinge on smarter legislation, tax reform, and strategic tech integration.

Market Dynamics: From Grassroots to Global Billions

As of 2024, the Indian sports betting market is estimated at USD 6.91 billion, with projections pointing toward a USD 16.83 billion valuation by 2033. A 7.1% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) underscores the momentum sweeping across the country’s digital infrastructure and consumer economy.

The main catalysts are clear:

Over 954 million internet users, bolstered by low-cost 4G and the rapid rollout of 5G.

A youth-dominated demographic—65% of India’s population is under 35—eager for mobile-first experiences.

The unmatched popularity of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and emerging franchises like the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL).

This confluence of tech access, youthful energy, and sports entertainment has built the ideal conditions for a digital betting revolution.

Beyond Cricket: Betting’s Expanding Portfolio

While cricket commands the lion’s share, other sports are steadily building loyal betting communities.

Football continues to thrive on the back of European leagues such as the EPL, Champions League, and La Liga, with domestic success stories like the Indian Super League (ISL) further fueling interest. Partnerships between ISL teams and brands like Parimatch point to increased visibility and betting traction.

Kabaddi, once an indigenous staple, is now a mainstream betting sport thanks to the PKL’s format and growing media coverage. Platforms offer dedicated odds and analytics, reflecting demand.

Tennis remains seasonal but profitable, with Grand Slam tournaments like Wimbledon, Australian Open, and US Open driving action.

Horse Racing retains its traditional appeal, especially during marquee events like the Indian Derby and Dubai World Cup, where legacy bettors still hold sway.

Emerging verticals like badminton (driven by stars like PV Sindhu) and eSports (notably Free Fire and PUBG) are attracting younger punters seeking digital-native experiences.

From Shadows to Screens: The Shift from Illegal to Online

India’s betting scene has long been undercut by a thriving shadow economy. An estimated $100 billion circulates annually through illegal networks. In Q1 2025 alone, there were 1.6 billion visits to unauthorized platforms—evidence of how deeply entrenched the problem remains.

But there’s a pivot.

Online betting, though caught in a regulatory gray area, is carving legitimacy. States like Sikkim and Nagaland have introduced regulatory frameworks, and Karnataka and Chhattisgarh are drafting skill-gaming-specific legislation.

Driving this online shift:

Mobile convenience and live-streaming integrations.

Secure, UPI-linked payment options.

A rising middle class willing to spend and explore.

The Major Players: Brands Betting Big on India

A host of global and localized platforms are vying for Indian market share. Notables include:

1xBet: A heavyweight with cricket and football expertise.

Dafabet: Popular during IPL and ISL seasons.

Betway: Leveraging Bollywood and international reach.

Parimatch: Official partners with ISL clubs.

Sportsbet.io: Leading the crypto-betting charge.

Stake: Sponsors Hyderabad and Mumbai FC, fusing crypto and sports.

Lucky Dreams, Spinbetter, Sol Casino: Known for massive libraries, rupee transactions, and traditional Indian card games like Andar Bahar and Teen Patti.

With over 20 platforms establishing a footprint, India is clearly on the map for global gambling titans.

What the Future Holds: Innovation Meets Regulation

The next frontier for India’s betting market could be unlocked through:

1. Technological breakthroughs

Blockchain ensures transaction transparency.

AI bolsters fraud detection, compliance, and personalized engagement.

2. Massive Tax Windfalls
Legalization could yield Rs 12,000–15,000 crore annually in government revenue—an incentive too large to ignore.

3. Cultural Mainstreaming
As betting intertwines with streaming, influencer marketing, and digital sports culture, it may shed long-held taboos.

The Legal Maze: Reform or Regress?

Despite the digital advances, India’s legal playbook is woefully outdated.

The Public Gambling Act of 1867 governs much of India’s betting landscape—a law written before modern sport even existed.

There’s friction between state and central governments, with inconsistent rulings across Goa, Sikkim, Maharashtra, and more.

The 28% GST on online gaming, enacted in 2023, has ironically pushed many players back into illegal territory.

Legislation like the Sports (Online Gaming and Prevention of Fraud) Bill, 2018 offers a roadmap—but enforcement and consensus remain elusive.

Consumer Safety: The Missing Pillar

While business booms, consumer protection lags. India lacks centralized systems to address:

Addiction and responsible gaming.

Underage access.

Data protection, especially across offshore platforms.

Without a dedicated regulatory body akin to the UK Gambling Commission, user welfare will remain a footnote in the sector’s rapid ascent.

Casino Brands to Watch

Major Casino Brands Targeting India
1xBet – Global leader with cricket and football focus.

Dafabet – Popular for IPL and ISL markets.

Betway – Partners with Bollywood celebrities like Nargis Fakhri.

10Cric – Cricket-centric platform with live dealer games.

Parimatch – Sponsors ISL teams like Goa FC.

Maharajafortune – Localized offerings for Indian users.

Sportsbet.io – Cryptocurrency betting pioneer.

Weltbet – Emerging platform with competitive odds.

Melbet – Features IPL and kabaddi markets.

BlueChip – Offers Andar Bahar and Teen Patti.

Spinbetter – Focuses on slots and live dealers.

Lucky Dreams Casino – 14,000+ games, including Indian classics.

22Bet – Diverse sportsbook with INR support.

Banzai Casino – High-value promotions for Indian players.

Drip Casino – Optimized for mobile users.

ComeOn Casino – Brand ambassador Virender Sehwag.

Sol Casino – Tailored for rupee transactions.

JungliWin – Features traditional Indian games.

JeffBet – Combines sports betting and casino games.

Stake – Sponsors Hyderabad FC and Mumbai FC

Final Whistle: A Market Poised Between Promise and Precarity

India’s sports betting industry is booming, vibrant, and rapidly evolving. It reflects a society more digitally connected and globally attuned than ever before. Cricket is still king, but a new cohort of digital bettors is embracing kabaddi, eSports, football, and beyond.

The question now isn’t whether India will regulate sports betting—but when and how. Smart policy, rooted in transparency, tax clarity, and tech-forward frameworks, could unlock a revenue-generating juggernaut and protect consumers.

Until then, the ball is firmly in the legislators' court.