New Delhi, Feb. 20 -- The Centre plans to bring India's online gaming companies under a single regulatory framework, eliminating the patchwork of state-level laws that currently governs the sector, two people aware of the development said.

The home ministry has formed a committee comprising its officials, legal and policy experts and gaming industry executives to discuss the way forward, the people cited above said on the condition of anonymity.

Gaming vs Gambling

Early discussions included whether a new law is required which would distinguish gaming from gambling, something that has remained contentious despite the Supreme Court terming online gaming as a game of skill, and gambling as a game of chance.

The government recognises the ...