A Complete Guide to Choosing the Best Government Lottery in India

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This guide provides an in-depth look at the government lottery system in India, discusses which the participating states are, ticket purchasing methods, and the best options based on transparency and prize potential. 

We also explore alternatives such as online lotteries and casinos for those in states where government lotteries are not available. 

By the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of how to choose the best lottery and what factors to consider to maximize your chances of winning safely and legally.

Table of Contents

What is a Government Lottery in India?

A government lottery in India is a state-run gambling scheme where participants buy tickets for a chance to win cash prizes.

Operated by select state governments, these lotteries generate revenue for public welfare projects while providing an exciting opportunity for citizens to win money legally.

Which Indian States Allow Government Lotteries?

which states allow government lotteries

Not all states in India permit lotteries.

The following states currently operate government lotteries:

Arunachal Pradesh

Assam

Goa

Kerala

Madhya Pradesh

Maharashtra

Manipur

Meghalaya

Mizoram

Nagaland

Punjab

Sikkim

West Bengal

Each state has its own lottery system with different ticket prices, draw frequencies, and jackpot amounts. 

Kerala, for example, is known for its well-regulated and transparent lottery operations, while Nagaland offers multiple daily draws.

How Are Government Lotteries Regulated?

The Indian government regulates lotteries through The Lotteries (Regulation) Act, 1998, which provides the framework for state governments to conduct and monitor lottery schemes. Some of the key guidelines include:

Tickets must be sold either directly by the state government or through authorized agents.

All lottery tickets must bear the official government logo to ensure authenticity.

States can hold multiple weekly draws and up to six bumper draws annually.

Prizes cannot be based on single-digit numbers.

Unclaimed winnings become state property after a set period.

How to Choose the Best Government Lottery?

With multiple state lotteries available, selecting the best one requires considering various factors:

Transparency & Reputation: Kerala’s lottery is known for its credibility and government oversight.

Prize Amounts: Some lotteries offer larger jackpots; for example, the Kerala “Thiruvonam Bumper” can go up to ₹25 crores.

Ticket Price: Some lotteries have affordable tickets, while others have premium-priced bumper draws.

Winning Odds: Check how many winners are chosen per draw.

Claim Process: Ensure that prize claims are simple and straightforward, with minimal bureaucracy.

Where to Buy Government Lottery Tickets?

Government lottery tickets are sold at authorized shops and vendors within the respective states. 

Some states also allow online ticket purchases through official government lottery portals.

Alternatives in States Without Legal Lotteries

For residents in states where government lotteries are banned, online lottery platforms offer an exciting and accessible alternative.

These platforms provide access to a variety of international and domestic lotteries, making them a preferred choice for players looking for more options.

Here are four reputable online platforms available to Indian players:

popular

01

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Gamblino Bonus

Deposit ₹800 and receive a ₹400 lottery bonus.

Up to ₹800 Lottery Bonus: Deposit ₹800 and receive a ₹400 lottery bonus. Up to 4 Free Malamaal Tickets: Buy one ticket for America’s Powerball and receive two Malamaal Tickets.

  • The world’s leading online lottery betting company
  • Offers online lottery betting, scratch cards, slots and casino games including live casino and sports betting.
  • Makes it easy to buy lottery tickets online in order to play international and Indian lotteries
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02

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Gamblino Bonus

Wide selection of International Lottery Games

Play more and save up to 25% with a Multi-Draw Package Get up to 20% off 2 or more shares on Raffles

  • Offers full overview and purchase of most international lotteries, such as Powerball and Mega Millions.
  • Buy lottery tickets online for over 50 of the biggest lotteries around the world offering huge jackpot prizes such as EuroMillions, EuroJackpot, SuperEnalotto, Mega Millions, US Powerball, and a wide range of other exciting lotteries.
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NEW

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Gamblino Bonus

Exciting Bonuses and Global Lottery Access

50% deposit bonus up to €200 and a free US Powerball ticket for new users This platform offers access to major international lotteries, including Powerball and EuroMillions. A variety of casino games are also available.

  • This platform offers access to major international lotteries, including Powerball and EuroMillions.
  • A variety of casino games are also available.
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NEW

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Gamblino Bonus

International Lottery Provider – Try Powerball, Mega Millions and more!

Offers a Multi-Draw Package where you can save up to 25%. Get up to 20% off 2 or more shares on Raffles

  • Buy lottery tickets online for over 50 of the biggest international lotteries such as EuroMillions, EuroJackpot, SuperEnalotto, Mega Millions, US Powerball, and a wide range of other exciting lotteries.
  • Offers full overview and purchase of most international lotteries, such as Powerball and Mega Millions.

Government Lottery vs. Online Lottery

FeatureGovernment LotteryOnline Lottery Platforms
LegalityLegal in select Indian statesOperates under international gambling licenses
AvailabilityOnly available in permitted statesAccessible online from anywhere
Variety of GamesLimited to number drawsAccess to multiple international lotteries
Winning PotentialLarge jackpots, but low oddsHigher variety of games with different prize pools
Regulation & SecurityStrictly government-regulatedLicensed by international gaming authorities
ConvenienceMust buy physical tickets in most casesBuy tickets online anytime from mobile or desktop
Bonuses & PromotionsNo bonusesVarious welcome bonuses and promotions available
Addiction RiskLower, as draws are periodicModerate, with frequent draws and betting opportunities

If you opt for an online lottery, ensure that the platform is reputable, legally compliant, and offers secure payment methods.

Our chosen top four platforms, namely Lottoland, TheLotter, Lotto247, and LottoSmile, are well-known for their reliability, game variety, and attractive bonuses.

They are excellent choices for Indian players looking to participate in international lotteries.

Conclusion

Government lotteries in India provide an exciting and legal way to win money while supporting state welfare programs. 

If your state allows lotteries, choosing the right one depends on factors like transparency, prize money, and ticket affordability.

For those in states without lotteries, online international lotteries and online casinos are alternatives, but it’s important to choose a trusted platform to ensure security and legality. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is playing the government lottery in India legal?

Yes, government lotteries are legal in India, but only in select states that permit and regulate lottery schemes under The Lotteries (Regulation) Act, 1998.

Can I buy government lottery tickets online?

Some states allow online purchases through official government lottery portals, but most require physical tickets to be bought from authorized vendors.

How do online lottery platforms compare to government lotteries?

Online lottery platforms provide access to international games, more variety, and convenience, whereas government lotteries are state-regulated and have fewer options.