Indians have always had a strong inclination toward gambling. A YouGov Research on Global Gambling Attitudes found that 25% of Indian adults enjoy betting. That proportion is higher than in several regulated markets such as Germany, Australia, and France. Despite the legal uncertainty surrounding online betting in India, a significant number of people continue to engage in various forms of gambling.
Among those who enjoy betting, 29% are drawn to fantasy sports to earn money. Fantasy sports platforms, particularly Dream11, have transformed betting habits. Unlike traditional sports betting, fantasy sports are legally recognized as a game of skill rather than chance. Indian courts have upheld this distinction, allowing fantasy sports platforms to operate freely. This legal backing has fueled the rapid rise of fantasy sports in India, attracting millions of users.
The IPL is the biggest market for these betting platforms, with a massive spike in bets placed during April when the tournament is played. The popularity of the IPL drives heavy traffic to betting websites, and platforms capitalize on this surge through various promotions. Offers such as the Mostbet promo code encourage more users to participate, increasing the number of bets during the season.
In this article, we explore legal loopholes that let Indian bettors outsmart the system. We discuss the use of offshore accounts for betting and how companies rely on surrogate advertising and promotions to work around strict regulations.
Betting Through Offshore Accounts
Indian gambling laws remain ambiguous, leading many bettors to offshore platforms. Operating outside India’s jurisdiction, international betting sites allow users to wager without legal consequences. Since no specific law prohibits Indians from using foreign betting sites, many use this loophole to place bets freely.
The issue of illegal online betting and gambling was raised in the Lok Sabha. Thirteen MPs highlighted various issues, including the financial and socio-economic risks associated with illegal betting and gambling. Lately, offshore betting and gambling websites have gained prominence in the media via high-visibility events, which include cricket matches and film award shows.
Except for states like Sikkim, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Goa, betting and gambling are banned in India. Even in states where they are legal, they are heavily regulated businesses. Only licensed operators are allowed to offer such services, and that too within the territorial boundaries of a particular state. Offshore websites, on the other hand, operate from countries like Malta and Curacao and allow people from across India to engage in betting and gambling.
Transactions with offshore betting sites occur through various methods, including cryptocurrency and e-wallets. Traditional payment options such as credit and debit cards are also used, but most bettors prefer digital wallets and cryptocurrency to maintain privacy. The absence of strict regulatory enforcement makes it easy for these platforms to cater to Indian users without legal repercussions.
Foreign betting sites also provide better odds, a wider range of games, and attractive bonuses compared to local alternatives. Users find these features more rewarding, encouraging further participation.
With no clear legal restrictions preventing individuals from accessing these platforms, the number of Indian users engaging with offshore betting firms continues to grow.
Advertising and Promotion Through Surrogate Means
Strict advertising laws prevent betting firms from openly promoting their services in India. However, companies use surrogate advertising to reach potential customers. Brand names associated with gambling platforms appear in advertisements under different categories, such as fantasy sports, online gaming, or sports news websites.
Dream11 has been a key IPL sponsor, holding the title sponsorship in 2020 and partnering with multiple teams. In 2024, it was Gujarat Titans’ principal shirt sponsor, with its logo featured on match jerseys.
Sponsorships drive brand visibility—betting firms back cricket, football, and kabaddi teams. Though direct gambling ads are illegal, these partnerships help brands gain recognition while staying within legal limits.
Betting brands have also aligned themselves with events featuring retired players. Two betting brands, Khiladi and SkyExch.net, have associated themselves with ‘legends cricket,’ featuring past cricketers. These partnerships allow them to gain visibility among sports enthusiasts while staying within the gray areas of advertising laws.
Celebrity endorsements also play a role. Many well-known personalities associate with platforms under the guise of promoting gaming or fantasy sports apps. It draws attention to betting-related services without explicitly mentioning gambling. Such indirect advertising methods ensure that betting platforms stay relevant in the Indian market despite legal restrictions.
Conclusion
Betting remains a popular activity in India despite legal uncertainties. Fantasy sports have gained legal acceptance, attracting users who view it as a way to earn money through skill-based gaming.
Meanwhile, offshore betting platforms continue to thrive due to the lack of specific laws restricting their use. Promotional tactics such as surrogate advertising and sponsorships help betting firms maintain their presence in India. Legal loopholes ensure that betting remains widespread, even as authorities struggle to regulate it effectively.
