India’s gaming ecosystem is exploding, with over 500 million active gamers and an increasingly engaged esports audience. Betting on esports is rising in popularity thanks to:
Easy access to offshore betting platforms
Localized tournaments like BGMI
Increased internet penetration and UPI support
The global esports betting market is projected to hit $2.4 billion by 2033 — and India is playing a major role in this growth.
Top Esports Games for Betting in India (2025)
BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India) – Most followed mobile title in India
Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) – Popular for its strategic depth
Valorant – Riot’s hit shooter with a growing Indian fanbase
Dota 2 – Big global tournaments attract betting interest
Is Esports Betting Legal in India?
India’s gambling laws vary by state. Here’s a basic overview:
Legal: Sikkim, Goa – Regulated markets with licensed platforms
Restricted: Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra
Unregulated (gray area): Most other states – offshore platforms operate here
Most esports betting sites used in India are licensed internationally (e.g., Curacao), and legality depends on your local jurisdiction.
Top Legal Esports Betting Platforms in India
Platform
License
India-Friendly
Features
Parimatch
Curacao
✅
UPI deposits, fast withdrawal
Dafabet
Philippines
✅
Cricket + esports combo betting
1xBet
Curacao
✅
Live streaming and real-time odds
Risks of Using Unlicensed Betting Apps
In 2025, Indian police cracked a ₹4,430 crore illegal betting case linked to Chinese-run platforms. Dangers include:
Financial fraud or lost deposits
No customer support or dispute resolution
Privacy and identity risks
Tip: Stick to verified, licensed platforms with transparent T&Cs and Indian payment options.
Future of Esports Betting: AI, Blockchain & VR
AI predictions – Informed, data-driven betting choices
Blockchain transparency – Fairness and anti-fraud assurance
VR lounges – Watch and bet in immersive 3D environments
Tips for Safe and Responsible Betting
Check if the site is legally accessible in your state
Start with small bets to learn the format
Understand the games and teams before wagering
Use secure payment options like UPI or Netbanking
FAQs About Esports Betting in India
Is esports betting legal in India?
It depends on your state. Some allow licensed platforms, while others restrict online betting. Most platforms operate offshore.
What games are popular for betting in India?
BGMI, CS2, Valorant, and Dota 2 are some of the most popular titles for esports betting among Indian users.
Which platforms are legal and safe to use?
Parimatch, Dafabet, and 1xBet are widely used platforms with offshore licenses that support Indian payments.
Conclusion
Esports betting in India is thriving in 2025. Whether you’re a fan of BGMI or an international tournament follower, the key is to bet responsibly, use legal platforms, and always prioritize safety over profit.
