PUBG Mobile could remain permanently banned in India as the government of India isn’t revoking the ban on any of the 119 apps restricted by it on September 2. As per the latest report, there isn’t any discussion within the government on revoking the ban on any of the restricted apps anytime soon. PUBG Mobile, one of the most popular mobile games was banned by the government over their alleged engagement in “activities” that were “prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, the security of the state and public order."
According to a report by InsideSport citing a “ministry source”, the government of India ,“ is in no discussion with-in the ministry officially to revoke the ban on any of the apps listed in the ban list.” PUBG Mobile severed ties with Tencent Games in India after the game was taken down from Google Play Store and Apple App Store. As per the report, the government has taken cognizance of the Corporation severing its ties but has said that a “mere announcement” isn’t enough to be considered for revocation of the ban in effect on PUBG Mobile.
Since its ban, there have been several rumours regarding PUBG Corporation looking for an Indian publisher for the popular battle royale title in India. However, the latest information does seem to indicate that it is going to be a long wait for PUBG Mobile players in India, at least until PUBG Corp gets a publisher on board.
Another report from The Hindu Business Line citing “sources in the know”, PUBG Corp. could collaborate with Jio Platforms to distribute PUBG Mobile in India. Reliance Jio is reportedly already in talks with PUBG Corp to take over the Indian licensing for publishing the popular battle royale game. Having said that, there’s no official word from either of the companies for a possible collaboration yet.
PUBG Mobile has over 50 million active players in India and had also become a source of revenue for several upcoming Indian streamers who have amassed a large following on YouTube and other social media platforms. All of that has come to a pause since the ban is in effect with players trying their hands on other games like Call of Duty Mobile, Clash of Clans, Among Us, FreeFire, to name a few.
It is currently not known when the ban on PUBG Mobile in India could be lifted and the latest information coming in from the government doesn’t seem very hopeful for PUBG Mobile players and fans in India.