Responsible Gambling

At Taj Mahal Gaming, player safety is our top priority. Gambling should be fun and entertaining — never a source of stress or financial hardship. This guide provides tools, tips, and resources to help you stay in control.

What Is Responsible Gambling?

Responsible gambling means making informed decisions about how you gamble and ensuring that it remains an enjoyable form of entertainment rather than a compulsion or financial necessity. It involves understanding the risks associated with gambling, setting personal limits on time and money spent, and knowing when to stop.

The vast majority of people who gamble do so responsibly and within their means. However, for a small percentage, gambling can become problematic and negatively impact their finances, relationships, mental health, and overall wellbeing. Recognising the signs early and taking action is crucial.

In India, where online gambling is growing rapidly through platforms offering cricket betting, Teen Patti, and casino games, it is especially important for players to educate themselves about responsible gambling practices. The ease of access through mobile devices and UPI payments means it is easier than ever to start playing — and equally important to know when to take a break.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help.

Spending more money on gambling than you can afford to lose

Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling

Feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop or cut back

Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or personal problems

Lying to family or friends about how much you gamble

Chasing losses by continuing to gamble in hopes of winning back money

Neglecting work, studies, family, or personal responsibilities because of gambling

Feeling guilt or shame after gambling sessions

Self-Assessment Quiz

Answer the following five questions honestly to assess your gambling habits. This is not a clinical diagnosis — it is a starting point for self-reflection.

1.Do you spend more time or money on gambling than you originally intended?

2.Have you tried to cut back on gambling but found it difficult to stop?

3.Do you feel anxious, irritable, or restless when you are not gambling?

4.Have you ever lied to family, friends, or others about your gambling habits?

5.Has gambling caused financial problems or conflicts in your relationships?

Tips for Safe Gambling

Set a Budget

Decide how much you can afford to lose before you start playing. Never gamble with money set aside for rent, bills, or essentials. Treat your gambling budget as an entertainment expense.

Set Time Limits

Use a timer or the casino's session limit feature. Taking regular breaks helps maintain perspective. Decide in advance how long you will play and stick to it.

Never Chase Losses

If you lose your budget, walk away. Chasing losses almost always leads to bigger losses. Accept that losing is part of gambling and never try to win back what you have lost in a single session.

Do Not Gamble When Emotional

Avoid gambling when you are stressed, upset, angry, or intoxicated. Emotional states impair judgement and lead to impulsive decisions. Only gamble when you are in a calm and clear headspace.

Understand the Odds

Every casino game has a house edge. In the long run, the casino always has a mathematical advantage. Knowing this helps you approach gambling as entertainment rather than an income strategy.

Use Casino Self-Exclusion Tools

Most reputable casinos offer deposit limits, loss limits, session reminders, and self-exclusion options. Use these tools proactively. Setting limits before you play is much easier than trying to stop mid-session.

Keep Gambling Social

Gambling alone can lead to isolation and excessive play. When possible, gamble with friends or in settings where others are around. If you find yourself increasingly gambling alone, it may be a warning sign.

Balance Gambling with Other Activities

Make sure gambling is just one of many leisure activities in your life. Maintain hobbies, exercise, social connections, and other interests. If gambling starts replacing other activities, it is time to reassess.

Helplines & Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. These organisations offer free, confidential support.

Vandrevala Foundation (India)

India's premier mental health helpline offering free, confidential, 24/7 counselling support in multiple languages including Hindi and English.

Helpline: 1860-2662-345

Available 24 hours, 7 days a week

iCall (TISS Mumbai)

A psychosocial helpline run by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, offering professional counselling for mental health and addiction concerns.

Helpline: 9152987821

Monday to Saturday, 8 AM to 10 PM IST

Gamblers Anonymous India

A fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others recover from gambling addiction.

www.gamblersanonymous.org

NIMHANS Helpline

The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences in Bangalore provides a toll-free helpline for mental health and addiction-related queries.

Helpline: 080-46110007

Monday to Saturday, 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM IST

International Resources

BeGambleAware

Free, confidential advice for anyone affected by problem gambling. Provides information, support, and referral to treatment services.

www.begambleaware.org

GamCare

Provides information, advice, and support for anyone affected by gambling problems. Offers a free helpline, live chat, and online forum.

www.gamcare.org.uk
18+

Gambling Is for Adults Only

You must be at least 18 years old to gamble online. If you are under 18, please leave this website. Online gambling should always be approached as a form of entertainment, not as a way to make money.

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