After traditional media platforms, India has witnessed a rapid rise in gambling application usage and online gaming. This shift caused by the advancement of technology has some positive impacts such as social connection, entertainment and wider possibilities in income generating activities. However, the growth of gaming and gambling apps in India has generated concerns due to their addictive potential and the adverse effects they pose to individuals, families and even to the society as a whole.
What Are The Reasons Behind The Increased Use Of Gaming And Gambling Apps In India?
Any problem that takes a giant face has several reasons behind it. The same goes for the growing concern about online gaming and gambling addiction in India. There are several reasons behind this widespread use, including:
Easy Accessibility Of Smart Devices
The availability and the low cost of gaming and gambling applications have been among the factors that have increased online gaming addiction in India. Anyone, anywhere, irrespective of their economic position, can easily pick up these applications owing to the high penetration of smartphones and internet services. In addition, such mobile applications have also attracted a wide range of users, from young people to the elderly, as they have low barriers to entry and the potential for fast wins.
The Psychology Behind The Algorithm Of These Apps
What keeps these gaming and gambling apps perpetually engaged is the deep and intricate psychology that is embedded into them. These apps often have features that encourage users to engage in the activity over and over again, create a rush or excitement and are extremely enjoyable and addictive.
Patterns of addiction can be sustained with the help of rewards, for example, by a virtual trophy or climbing up to a new level. Also, the social aspect of such applications, for example, chat rooms or team games, can create a bond between users which in turn makes such applications difficult to do away with.
Harmful Consequences Of Gaming And Gambling Apps In India
Addiction to gaming and gambling applications can have serious detrimental effects on people’s lives, families, and society at large. An individual level of addiction can impact the mental well-being of the user, inflict societary withdrawal, and even lead to economic ruination. They might neglect their family, social relations, and personal health in favor of gaming or gambling. In rare cases, dependencies could even engender suicidal ideas or lead to individuals attempting suicide.
Financial Deterioration
Obsession with games and gaming-related apps can lead to deterioration in one’s finances, an unhealthy environment within the family, or even abusive behavior within the family. Family members may avoid discussing their feelings, creating tension among the family members. Financial burdens resulting from the disorder are also detrimental to the wellbeing of families because it forces individuals to sell their properties or seek other means of assistance.
According to a recent report published in the Deccan Herald in September 2024, A 22-year-old internet gambler was detained by Bengaluru police. The man allegedly stole gold from his own house to pay for his bets. Before escaping, he took cash and gold valued at Rs. 45,000 and Rs. 7 lakh, which his parents saved for the wedding of his brother.
Engaging In Delinquent Behavior
This addiction also has societal impacts, including a threat to public health and education systems as well as loss of economic productivity. Loss of self-control in addicts may worsen their chances of performing to their potential and increase the possibility of engaging in illegal and criminal behavior. In addition, the costs associated with addiction to a population – for instance, lost productivity, healthcare expenditures, welfare payments, etc. – can be very high.
According to a Hindustan Times report, In the Thane district, A 28-year-old man was detained by the Bhiwandi rural police in August 2024 on charges of killing a 74-year-old woman and setting her house on fire after taking her gold jewels to pay off his debt of rs. 1.5 lakh that he had accrued as a result of his internet gambling addiction.
A Multifaceted Approach Is Required To Deal With Gambling Addiction In India
In India, an integrated approach is essential to deal with the menace posed by online gambling apps and gaming addiction. Most importantly, there is a need to provide information about the nature of addiction and the adverse effects that may follow. Schools, colleges, and community organizations can play a very useful role in helping people who are suffering from addiction and in encouraging healthy use of technology.
Additionally, in order to protect consumers and curb the victimization of less privileged groups, it is necessary to introduce better laws and mechanism for enforcement. The state should also consider devising laws similar to those that impose restrictions on publication of addiction information, age limits, and promotion of moderation in gambling practices. There is also an issue with the gaming and gambling domains that they are not developed and marketed within the confines of socially responsible law.
Providing Support And Specialized Addiction Treatment Plans
Finally, yet importantly, it is crucial that any person who is addicted is given both supportive services and efficient treatment. Rehabilitative measures for patients in this case include therapy and counseling, which assist the patient in overcoming their addictions while at the same time developing healthier ways of coping with stressors. In addition, more attention and resources should be allocated to research in psychology and addiction treatments to design more efficient intervention schemes.
According to a report published in The Economic Times, After undergoing seven months of counseling to fight his gambling habit, a techie who works for a leading software business in Bengaluru reunites with his family. His children and wife, who is also a technician, had left him after they discovered his gambling habit, which cost him Rs 70 lakh in savings. The man underwent multiple counseling sessions before being referred to the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences for tech de-addiction therapy.
In Summary
The increased use and acceptance of social gaming and gambling applications in mobile devices in the Indian market have its benefits and risks. These applications provide social and recreational benefits but tend to have a compulsive aspect that can be very destructive. In India, where there are increasing cases of habitual use of gaming and gambling applications, measures to increase awareness, policy regulation, and provision of services can help make the country healthier and more prosperous.
