The Indian online gaming market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.50 % from USD 2.5 billion in FY 2022 to USD 3.8 billion by 2030, indicating robust expansion across various segments, driven by increasing internet penetration, the proliferation of smartphones, and evolving consumer preferences.

This online gambling industry is set for remarkable growth, presenting vast opportunities for businesses. Understanding game types, player behaviours, and demographics has become essential for attracting and engaging a diverse customer base.

The Dominance of Sports Betting

• Sports betting, particularly on cricket, dominates the market, according to Ken research analysis, 64.7% of users engage in this activity, driven by its popularity during events like the Indian Premier League (IPL) where over 340 million Indians participate, and regular bettors in cricket number around 140 million. Furthermore, there is football betting, Horse Racing, and E-sports betting.
• While, Card games, such as poker, rummy, and teen patti, attract 42.4% of players, offering skill-based challenges. Additionally, board games, including online chess and carrom, follow with 40.1% engagement, appealing to a broad demographic.

Recreational Players are Leading the Market

• Player behaviour is another critical dimension for segmentation, Recreational players, who gamble occasionally for entertainment, represent the largest segment, accounting for more than half of the market.
• Frequent players engage more regularly, seeking entertainment and competitive experiences. High-stakes players, while fewer in number, contribute disproportionately to revenue due to their larger bets.
• As per the Kenresearch findings, 45.4% of respondents spend 1-5 hours weekly on online gambling, indicating substantial time investment among casual users. Businesses can cater to these groups through loyalty programs and exclusive events.

Which Demographics Dominates the Market?

• Younger audiences aged 18-35 dominate the market, attracted by digital-first platforms and gamified experiences. Further, income levels influence gambling preferences, with middle and upper-middle-class players constituting the majority due to their high disposable income and access to digital payment methods.
• Education levels further impact player behaviour, as more educated individuals often gravitate toward skill-based games like poker. The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) report highlights urban areas like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru as gambling hotspots, with rural participation increasing by 50% due to improved internet access.
• Businesses address these concerns by implementing encryption and fraud detection systems, ensuring compliance with regulations, and promoting responsible gambling practices through certifications and user education campaigns. The UK Gambling Commission's Industry Statistics (2024) reports that around 75% of gamblers prefer licensed operators for safety and regulation adherence.

The Indian online gambling market rapid growth underscores the importance of nuanced market segmentation. By understanding customer preferences across game types, player behaviours, and demographic factors, companies can develop targeted strategies to capitalize on this evolving landscape. With tailored offerings and a data-driven approach, businesses can unlock significant value in one of the world’s most dynamic gambling markets while building trust and sustainability.