🏏 Online Sports Betting in India: A Complete Guide (2025)
Introduction
Online sports betting in India has seen rapid growth in India over the past decade. With increasing access to smartphones, affordable internet, and a booming interest in sports like cricket and football, millions of Indians have started exploring online betting platforms. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, understanding the legal rules, choosing the right platform, and following a sound betting strategy are essential to making the most of your experience.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about online sports betting in India — in simple, human-friendly language.
⚖️ Is Online Sports Betting Legal in India?
National Laws
“The Public Gambling Act of 1867, India’s core gambling law, prohibits running or visiting physical gambling establishments.”
However, this law is outdated and doesn’t mention online gambling specifically, leaving room for interpretation.
Since gambling is a state subject under the Indian Constitution, individual states have the power to allow, regulate, or ban betting and gambling activities within their territories.
State-wise Rules
- States like Sikkim and Goa have permitted certain types of online gambling under regulated frameworks.
- Maharashtra and some other states strictly ban online betting.
- Most other states remain silent, making the activity operate in a legal grey area.
What About Foreign Platforms?
A large number of Indian bettors prefer using international platforms that are licensed in countries such as: The UK (UK Gambling Commission)
- Malta (Malta Gaming Authority)
- Curacao (Curacao eGaming License)
These websites often accept Indian players, support INR, and offer Indian payment options.
Bottom line: Online sports betting is neither completely legal nor illegal across India — it depends on your state.
🏆 Popular Sports for Betting in India
1. Cricket
Cricket is king in India. It’s the most bet-on sport across the country. Key events include:
- Indian Premier League (IPL)
- T20 World Cup
- ODI and Test Matches
2. Football (Soccer)
With the growing fanbase of clubs like Manchester United, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich, football betting is gaining popularity. Popular tournaments include:
- English Premier League (EPL)
- UEFA Champions League
- FIFA World Cup
- Indian Super League (ISL)
3. Tennis
Tennis betting is available all year round, with Grand Slams and ATP/WTA events drawing high volumes of bets.
4. Kabaddi
With the rise of the Pro Kabaddi League, kabaddi betting has gained mainstream popularity.”
Horse Racing
5. Horse Racing
“Several Indian states legally permit horse race betting, making it a notable exception to the country’s general gambling restrictions.
📅 Types of Bets You Can Place
Match Winner
The easiest type of bet — choose the team or player you expect to win.
Over/Under
You place a bet predicting if the total score will exceed or fall short of a set number.
Top Scorer/Player Bets
Predict who will be the top scorer or best player in a match or tournament.
Live Betting (In-Play)
Place bets while the match is going on. Odds change in real-time, offering more dynamic options.
Accumulator Bets (Parlay)
Combine multiple bets into one. If all selections win, the payout multiplies.
📝 How to Choose a Sports Betting Platform
1. Licensing and Reputation
Opt for betting sites licensed by trusted authorities such as the UK Gambling Commission or Malta Gaming Authority, and check user reviews to ensure credibility.
2. User Interface
A clean, fast, and mobile-friendly interface is crucial. Whether you’re placing bets or withdrawing funds, the experience should be smooth.
3. Payment Methods
Look for platforms offering Indian-friendly payment options:
- UPI
- Paytm
- PhonePe
- Net Banking
- Cryptocurrency (on some sites)
4. Bonuses and Promotions
Many websites offer:
- Welcome bonuses
- Deposit matches
- Free bets
- Loyalty rewards
Read the terms carefully – especially wagering requirements.
5. Customer Support
Select platforms that offer quick and helpful customer support through live chat, WhatsApp, or other instant channels.
💡 Sports Betting Strategies That Work
Bankroll Management
Always bet what you can afford to lose. Set daily or weekly betting limits.
Research and Analysis
Base your bets on data and recent form, not personal bias or gut feelings.
Bet with a Clear Head
Avoid betting when you’re angry, tired, or intoxicated. Stay sharp.
Track Your Bets
Maintain a betting journal. Keep track of the bet type, odds, stake amount, and final result. This helps you learn and improve.
Stick to One Strategy
Start with one betting method. Learn how it works, track results, and improve your strategy over time.
📲 Getting Started: Step-by-Step Guide
- Choose a Betting Platform: Pick a reliable and legal site.
- Create an Account: Use real information.
- Verify Your Identity: Upload KYC documents if required.
- Deposit Money: Use a secure Indian payment option.
- Explore Sports and Markets: Take your time understanding odds and bet types.
- Place Your First Bet: Start small and gradually grow your confidence.
- Withdraw Winnings: Follow platform rules for fast withdrawals.
⚠️ Risks and Responsible Gambling
Betting can be exciting, but it’s crucial to gamble responsibly and stay in control.
Signs of Problem Gambling:
- Chasing losses
- Lying about your betting habits
- Betting with money meant for bills or essentials
What You Can Do:
- Use self-exclusion tools
- Set deposit and loss limits
- Take regular breaks
If needed, seek help from:
- BeGambleAware (UK)
- Gambling Therapy
- Local counseling services
📜 Tax on Sports Betting Winnings in India
If you win big, be prepared to pay tax. As per Indian tax laws:
- A flat 30% tax is deducted at source (TDS) on gambling winnings.
- You must declare your winnings when filing ITR.
International platforms might not deduct TDS automatically, so it becomes your responsibility.
🌟 Best Global Betting Sites for Indian Players in 2025
Here are a few popular platforms trusted by Indian users:
- Betway: Known for IPL and football betting
- Parimatch: Great for beginners
- 1xBet: Offers extensive sports coverage
- 10Cric: Designed for Indian players, supporting INR payments and UPI transactions
- Dafabet: Strong reputation in Asia
Note: Always check current legality in your state before signing up.
