**Mobile Premier League to Cut 60% of Workforce Amid Gaming Ban**
**Meta Description:** Mobile Premier League plans to reduce its workforce by 60% following India’s ban on paid online games, impacting its operations significantly.
**URL Slug:** mobile-premier-league-workforce-cuts-gaming-ban
**Mobile Premier League to Cut 60% of Workforce Amid Gaming Ban**
In a significant move following the Indian government’s recent ban on paid online games, Mobile Premier League (MPL) is set to lay off approximately 60% of its local workforce. This decision, confirmed by a company source, marks a major response to the new legislation aimed at curbing financial risks and addiction, particularly among the youth.
The ban, enacted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration, has led to the shutdown of numerous gaming applications that offered paid fantasy cricket, rummy, and poker games. This unexpected regulatory change has sent shockwaves through an industry that was projected to reach a valuation of $3.6 billion by 2029, supported by venture capital firms like Tiger Global and Peak XV Partners.
MPL, along with its competitor Dream11, gained popularity in recent years by providing platforms for paid fantasy cricket, allowing users to win financial rewards. The gaming industry has consistently argued that these games are skill-based and should not be classified as gambling, which is heavily regulated in India.
As MPL shifts its focus towards free-to-play games and expands its presence in the U.S. market, the company plans to reduce its workforce from 500 to around 200 employees across various departments, including marketing, finance, operations, engineering, and legal. In an internal email to staff, MPL CEO Sai Srinivas expressed regret over the decision, stating, “with a heavy heart we have decided that we will be downsizing our India Team significantly.” He emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting affected employees during this transition.
India has historically contributed to 50% of MPL’s revenues, and this change indicates a significant loss of income from the region in the foreseeable future. MPL has not provided further comments regarding the layoffs.
MPL, which was valued at $2.3 billion in 2021 and is backed by Peak XV Partners, also offers free-to-play games in Europe and paid games in the United States and Brazil. Last year, MPL’s revenue from India was approximately $100 million. In response to the ban, Dream11, valued at $8 billion, has also ceased its fantasy cricket offerings, and several other applications providing paid poker and rummy games have followed suit.
In a notable development, the Indian gaming company A23 has challenged the government’s ban, while MPL and Dream11 have opted not to pursue legal action.
**FAQ**
**Q: Why is Mobile Premier League laying off employees?**
A: Mobile Premier League is laying off employees due to the Indian government’s ban on paid online games, which has significantly impacted its revenue and operations in the country.
