Responsible Gambling
Guide for India
Your safety and well-being come first. Learn essential strategies for maintaining control, setting limits, and ensuring that cricket betting remains a fun and safe form of entertainment.
Remember: Betting should always be entertaining, never a solution to financial problems.
Core Principles of Responsible Betting
Set Clear Limits
Establish time and money limits before you start betting. Stick to these limits regardless of wins or losses. This is your most important tool for staying in control.
Treat It as Entertainment
Consider betting costs as entertainment expenses, like going to movies or dining out. Never bet money you can't afford to lose or need for essential expenses.
Stay Informed
Understand the risks involved in betting. Know the odds, understand that the house always has an edge, and be aware of the signs of problem gambling.
Never Chase Losses
Accept losses as part of the game. Trying to win back losses by betting more is the fastest way to lose control and exceed your limits.
Professional Bankroll Management
The 1-5% Rule
Never bet more than 1-5% of your total bankroll on a single bet
Example: With ₹10,000 bankroll, bet maximum ₹100-500 per wager
Separate Betting Money
Keep betting funds completely separate from living expenses
Example: Use a dedicated account only for entertainment betting funds
Set Monthly Budgets
Decide on a monthly entertainment budget before you start
Example: If you spend ₹2,000/month on movies, consider similar for betting
Track All Bets
Keep detailed records of all wins, losses, and betting activity
Example: Use a spreadsheet or betting diary to monitor patterns
Regular Reviews
Monthly assessment of your betting behavior and results
Example: Ask yourself: Am I still having fun? Am I within my limits?
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognizing the early signs of problem gambling can help you or someone you care about seek help before the situation worsens.
Financial Signs
Betting more money than you can afford to lose
Borrowing money to bet or pay gambling debts
Lying about gambling expenses to family or friends
Neglecting bills or important expenses to fund betting
Chasing losses with increasingly larger bets
Behavioral Signs
Spending excessive time thinking about or engaging in betting
Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut back on betting
Lying to family and friends about gambling activities
Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities
Using gambling as an escape from problems or negative feelings
Emotional Signs
Feeling guilty or ashamed about gambling behavior
Experiencing mood swings related to wins and losses
Becoming defensive when confronted about gambling
Feeling helpless or out of control with betting habits
Using betting as the primary source of excitement or entertainment
Available Safety Tools
Deposit Limits
Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on how much you can deposit
How to use: Available in account settings on all reputable betting platforms
Time Limits
Restrict how much time you spend on betting websites or apps
How to use: Use built-in platform tools or phone apps like Screen Time
Loss Limits
Set maximum amounts you're willing to lose in a given period
How to use: Configure in responsible gambling settings on betting sites
Reality Checks
Regular pop-up reminders showing time spent and money wagered
How to use: Enable notifications in your betting account preferences
Self-Exclusion
Temporarily or permanently block access to betting platforms
How to use: Contact customer support or use self-exclusion tools in account settings
Cool-Off Periods
Take a break from betting for 24 hours to 6 weeks
How to use: Available as a responsible gambling feature on most platforms
Help and Support Resources in India
Gamblers Anonymous India
Support groups and meetings for individuals with gambling problems
Visit local meetings or online support groups
www.gamblersanonymous.in
National Helpline for Mental Health
24/7 confidential support for mental health including gambling addiction
Call: 1800-120-820050
www.nimhans.ac.in
BeGambleAware India
Information, advice and support for problem gambling
Online resources and chat support
www.begambleaware.in
Family Support Services
Support for family members affected by gambling problems
Counseling services and support groups
Local mental health services
If You Need Immediate Help
Don't wait if gambling is causing serious problems in your life. Professional help is available and confidential.
National Mental Health Helpline: 1800-120-820050
Available 24/7
Commitment to Your Safety
We are committed to promoting responsible gambling. Your well-being is more important than any bet.