GLI’s Devon Dalbock Pushes for Centralized iGaming Regulation in India

In a recent exclusive interview with SiGMA , Devon Dalbock, Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs at Gaming Laboratories International (GLI), highlighted the need for a central regulatory framework to govern the iGaming sector in India. With the market currently facing fragmented oversight and a lack of uniformity, Dalbock argued that a centralized, federal-level regulatory body could offer greater clarity, protect players, and ensure fairness.

Dalbock’s comments are timely, considering India’s evolving stance on online gaming, which has been marked by state-level bans and inconsistent regulations. India’s IT Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, recently reiterated that betting and gambling are state subjects, leaving jurisdictional gaps that make it difficult to effectively regulate and protect consumers. In his remarks, Vaishnaw defended the federal structure of India’s governance, underscoring that state governments hold the power to regulate betting and gambling activities.

Dalbock criticized the reliance on self-regulatory bodies in the iGaming industry, suggesting that such systems often fail to serve the best interests of the public. “Self-regulation has its flaws,” Dalbock noted, emphasizing that certain stakeholders may prioritize their own interests over consumer protection. He called for a central authority to oversee the sector, ensuring that all operators comply with consistent standards that prioritize player safety and responsible gaming.

Dalbock explained that clear regulations are vital in maintaining transparency and preventing unethical practices, such as anti-money laundering violations, underage gambling, and consumer fraud. He proposed a more structured and transparent approach, where operators adhere to clearly defined rules that benefit both players and the market as a whole.

Dalbock also addressed the growing integration of online gaming with land-based casinos, a shift that has gained momentum in various jurisdictions. He acknowledged that while some land-based operators initially resisted the advent of online gaming, many are now embracing hybrid models, offering both physical and digital gambling options. In regions such as Africa and Sri Lanka, integrated resorts that combine both types of gaming have proven successful in driving tourism and boosting local economies. However, Dalbock warned that such transitions require significant investments and careful regulatory oversight to ensure a balanced and fair marketplace.

With online gaming becoming increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats, Dalbock stressed the importance of robust cybersecurity frameworks. GLI has been at the forefront of developing cybersecurity standards tailored to the gaming industry, which include annual audits, penetration testing, and vulnerability assessments. Dalbock pointed out that online gaming operators handle sensitive player data, such as identification details and financial information, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. Ensuring the security of this data is paramount in fostering trust and safeguarding the integrity of the gaming environment.

In particular, he called attention to the need for strict verification processes to prevent underage gambling and ensure that all players are properly identified. Age verification, he noted, is especially crucial in jurisdictions like India, where the online gambling market is still developing and regulatory gaps persist.

Dalbock’s call for a centralized regulatory framework comes as India grapples with the complexities of regulating online gaming. As of now, self-regulation and state-level initiatives have proven inadequate, leaving consumers exposed to unregulated platforms and increasing the risk of harm. India’s fragmented approach to iGaming regulation, coupled with the rise of illegal gambling sites, underscores the urgency of creating a cohesive national framework.

Dalbock emphasized that regulating the industry not only ensures player protection but also opens the door for government revenue through taxation. “Gambling is happening anyway,” Dalbock said. “It’s just happening on illegal sites without player protection, and the government is losing out on the potential tax revenue.”

In his view, India could benefit from adopting best practices observed in other Asian markets that have successfully integrated centralized regulatory bodies for iGaming. Such measures would provide a safer environment for players, protect the integrity of the industry, and enable the government to capture tax revenue from a legally regulated market.

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Dalbock also discussed emerging trends in the iGaming sector, particularly the rise of mobile-first products and crash games that cater to younger audiences seeking quick, engaging gaming experiences. He highlighted the potential for India to become a leading market for these innovations, given the country’s high internet penetration and large mobile user base.

Looking ahead, Dalbock is optimistic about the prospects for India’s iGaming industry, particularly if the country can establish a well-structured regulatory framework. This would not only boost investor confidence but also create a safer, more transparent market for consumers.

Source:

Exclusive: GLI’s Devon Dalbock calls for central regulatory body over self-regulation in iGaming, SiGMA News, March 26, 2025.