Poker in India

Is poker legal in India?

Mixed by state. Poker is legal as a 'game of skill' in most Indian states under federal law. Five states explicitly allow online poker: Karnataka, Sikkim, Nagaland, West Bengal, and historically Goa. States with restrictions: Telangana, Andhra Pradesh (blanket gambling bans), Tamil Nadu (recent restrictions). Tax: 30% TDS on winnings above ₹10,000 per session under section 194B.

What are the best online poker sites in India?

Major Indian poker sites: Adda52 (largest, owned by Delta Corp), PokerBaazi (mid-stakes focus), Spartan Poker (acquired by Baazi Games 2024). Most accept INR deposits via UPI, bank transfers. Offer cash games and tournaments in INR. PokerStars and GGPoker also serve Indian players but with INR conversion.

Are poker winnings taxed in India?

Yes — heavily. 30% TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) on individual winnings above ₹10,000 per session under section 194B of the Income Tax Act. No cess or surcharge for amounts below ₹50 lakh. Winnings count as 'income from other sources' on annual returns. Losses cannot offset winnings (unlike US). Indian tax burden on poker winnings is among the highest globally.

Who are the top Indian poker players?

Notable Indian poker pros: Aditya Sushant (first Indian WSOP bracelet winner, 2017). Nikita Luther (2018 WSOP bracelet winner). Shaktirupa Patil. Kunal Patni. Anuj Yadav. The Indian poker scene has grown significantly since 2010 with multiple Indian-born players winning major tournaments. Adda52 sponsors many top players.

What's the WPT India?

WPT India is the Indian stop of the World Poker Tour. Held annually since 2017 (paused 2020-2021 for COVID). Main Event buy-in ~₹2,75,000 (~$3,300 USD). Significantly smaller fields than US/European WPT events but rapidly growing. Adda52 Live and Spartan Poker tournament series also offer major Indian events.