The All India Game Developers’ Forum (AIDGF) has released a report titled ‘India’s Gaming Industry: Time for Age and Content Ratings?’ in partnership with the Indian Governance and Policy Project (IGAP). The report showcases the critical need for a structured age and content rating system tailored to the cultural and regulatory landscape of India’s expanding gaming industry. “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,” Roland Landers, spokesperson, AIDGF said.
As per the report, despite an estimated 425 million gamers and increasing consumption of gaming content, India currently lacks a standardised age-rating framework, unlike other digital contents such as OTT platforms, and frameworks in other nations or regions. In addition to that, the report examines 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.
Furthermore, the report also outlines features for a proposed age-rating framework for gaming in India, emphasising the need for categories and descriptors that reflect the cultural sensitivities and legal requirements unique to the Indian context. “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,” Landers added.