The All-India Game Developers’ Forum (AIGDF) has released a new white paper titled “India’s Gaming Industry: Time For Age & Content Ratings?” in partnership with the Indian Governance and Policy Project (IGAP).
Aiming to foster a dialogue between stakeholders, including government bodies, industry leaders, and consumer groups to implement a framework that ensures a secure and enjoyable gaming environment for all, especially younger players, the white paper underscores the critical need for a structured age and content rating system tailored to the unique cultural and regulatory landscape of India’s rapidly expanding gaming industry.
Here are some of the key findings of the white paper:
1. Regulatory Vacuum: Despite an estimated 425 million gamers, the increasing consumption of gaming content, India currently lacks a standardized age-rating framework, unlike other digital content sectors such as OTT platforms, and frameworks in other nations/regions.
2. International Best Practices: The report examines leading global age-rating systems, including the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in North America and the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) system, providing valuable insights for the development of a domestic rating model.
3. Proposed Indian Framework: The report also outlines features for a proposed age-rating framework for gaming in India, emphasizing the need for categories and descriptors that reflect the cultural sensitivities and legal requirements unique to the Indian context.
Commenting on the Release, Roland Landers, Spokesperson, AIGDF, said, “As India’s gaming industry continues to grow at an unprecedented pace, it is imperative to establish a robust framework to protect our younger gamers. This report provides a blueprint for industry leaders and policymakers to ensure that gaming in India is not only entertaining but also safe and responsible.”
He added, “The gaming industry will continue to have the fastest growth in the Media & Entertainment sector over the next few years, and a substantial chunk of this growth will come from the Free to Play segment. We’ve recently seen proposals for time and spending limits, and previously there have even been bans. While the intent to protect is clear, these measures often feel like ad-hoc, knee-jerk reactions that could stifle the industry’s potential rather than nurture it. Instead, we believe in a collaborative approach. Let’s engage in a conversation about the best ways to regulate and support this dynamic industry.”
Furthermore, Landers also emphasised, “By looking at global best practices, such as parental controls and age verification systems, we can find solutions that protect players without hampering growth. This is just the beginning. We are committed to working closely with all stakeholders—players, parents, developers, and regulators—to ensure that the gaming industry in India continues to flourish in a responsible and sustainable manner.”
