Play Responsibly, Play Safely

Responsible gaming begins with informed choices and consistent habits. The following strategies can help you maintain control over your gambling activity.

• Set a budget before you play. Decide in advance how much you can afford to spend, and do not exceed that amount under any circumstances.
• Use deposit limits. Most licensed platforms allow you to cap how much you deposit daily, weekly, or monthly.
• Track the time you spend gambling. Set a timer or use session limit tools available on reputable platforms.
• Never chase losses. Accepting a loss as a natural outcome of gambling is an important part of staying in control.
• Treat gambling as entertainment. It is a leisure activity, not a source of income or a financial strategy.
• Avoid gambling when emotionally distressed. Stress, anxiety, or grief can impair judgment and increase risk.
• Take regular breaks. Step away from a session periodically to assess your state of mind and spending.
• Do not borrow money to gamble. Gambling with borrowed funds increases financial risk significantly.
• Balance gambling with other activities. Maintaining a variety of interests and social connections supports healthier habits.
• Review your gambling activity regularly. Periodic self-assessment helps you identify changes in behaviour early.

Gambling addiction can develop gradually and may be difficult to identify without awareness. The following warning signs indicate that gambling may have become a problem.

• Spending more money on gambling than originally intended
• Persistent thoughts about gambling throughout the day
• Feeling restless or irritable when attempting to reduce or stop gambling
• Repeated unsuccessful attempts to control gambling behaviour
• Gambling to escape personal problems, anxiety, or low mood
• Lying to family members or friends about gambling habits
• Neglecting work, studies, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
• Continuing to gamble despite serious financial consequences
• Losing interest in hobbies or relationships that were previously important

Online casino platforms are strictly intended for individuals who have reached the legal age of majority. In India, this means players must be at least 18 years of age to register an account and participate in any form of real-money gambling. Age verification is a mandatory part of the registration process on all reputable platforms. If you are a parent or guardian, it is your responsibility to ensure that minors in your household do not have access to gambling websites or applications.

Self-exclusion is a voluntary measure that allows players to restrict their own access to an online casino for a defined period or indefinitely. Licensed gambling platforms are required to provide this option as part of their responsible gaming obligations. You can request a self-exclusion period that ranges from a few days to several years, depending on your needs. During this period, you will be unable to log in, place bets, or access promotional offers. Self-exclusion is a recognised and effective step for anyone who feels their gambling is becoming difficult to manage. It is advisable to combine this tool with professional support for the best possible outcome.

Help is available for anyone in India who is experiencing difficulties related to gambling. The organisations listed below provide confidential support, counselling, and guidance.

• iCall (iCall Psychosocial Helpline): A professional counselling service run by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in Mumbai. Accessible via phone and email for individuals seeking mental health and behavioural support.
• Vandrevala Foundation Helpline: A 24/7 mental health helpline operating across India. Provides free, confidential support for individuals dealing with addiction and related concerns. Helpline number: 1860-2662-345.
• Fortis Stress Helpline: Operated by Fortis Healthcare, this helpline offers immediate support for those facing stress, addiction, and psychological distress. Helpline number: +91-8376804102.
• Sumaitri (Befrienders India): A volunteer organisation based in New Delhi that provides emotional support to individuals in distress. Contact available via phone and email.
• Alcoholics Anonymous India (AA India): Follows a structured 12-step recovery programme and provides peer support for those managing addictive behaviour, including gambling.
• National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru: A premier government institution offering specialised psychiatric and addiction treatment services across India.