Definition of Gambling as per Merriam -Webster Dictionary is the practice of risking money or other stakes in a game or bet
What is Gambling?
Whether a game is a gamble or not, depends upon the skill vs chance test. Games of chances are illegal in many states but there are exceptions as well.
Skill vs Chance
The Lotteries in India are governed by the Lotteries (Regulation) Act, 1998. The Central and State Govt. has the power to make rules under this act.
Lotteries
In the case of Dr. K.R. Lakshmanan v. State of Tamil Nadu and Anr. the Supreme Court has held that betting on horse racing is a game of skill.
Horse Racing
The laws respect to online gaming are still developing. Some states have regulated it while others are yet to do so.
Online Gaming
Sports betting is permitted in Sikkim, Nagaland and Meghalaya. While it is banned in Daman and Diu and Goa.
Gambling laws in Sikkim, Meghalaya, and Nagaland
The US Laws prohibit gambling and penalise for accepting payments related to unlawful online gambling. Canada has also restricted it with some exceptions.
International Overview
So, gambling laws in India vary according to the type of game and the state.