Indian Union Territory could set offshore casinos

Union authorities will visit Goa to learn all aspects of offshore casinos operations and regulations.

India.- Union Territory in India, which includes national capital Delhi, has entered in the preliminary stage of offshore casino legislation debate. The Union Government introduced the proposal to generate more income and boosting the regional tourism industry.

Offshore casinos could be installed in the Union Territory imitating operations in Goa, the only Indian state that legalised gaming industry. Tourism Minister, among a high-level delegation, will visit the state to study the concept of off-shore casinos, their revenue model and various other aspects.

“The Cabinet has held discussions on the proposal to start off-shore casinos modelled on the ones in Goa. We are exploring the options to allow them in Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam. The casinos would be primarily aimed at domestic and international tourists visiting the Union Territory,” expressed Health Minister Malladi Krishna Rao, who is also in charge of tourism issues.

The gaming proposal needs the approval of the Congress Government. Currently the Cabinet is assessing the first offshore casino bill, which aims at garnering more revenues for the Territory. In addition, the Indian Tourism Department has been exploring the option of starting theme parks, food courts and other recreational facilities with the idea of giving a fillip to tourism as well.