For those wondering about the status of the Bhutan Lottery, we at LottoBaba did some deep research to uncover the truth. Bhutan’s lottery has a long and controversial history, and many people assume it no longer exists. However, Bhutan’s official lottery is very much active today, but you can’t buy tickets in India! Let’s break it down.
The Fall of Bhutan Lottery (2011)
Bhutan’s lottery was once a major business, selling tickets in India through private distributors. However, in 2011, the Bhutan government completely shut down its lottery operations after a multi-billion rupee scam was uncovered.
- A private Indian lottery operator, Santiago Martin, was accused of running a massive fraud linked to Bhutan Lottery. (Source)
- Bhutan terminated all agreements with Indian lottery agents and stopped selling tickets in India. (Source)
- The government shut down the Lottery Directorate in Phuentsholing and left the lottery business entirely. (Source)
Bhutan Lottery’s Comeback (2016)
After five years, Bhutan decided to relaunch its lottery, but with a major difference—this time, it would be fully government-owned and transparent.
- In April 2016, the government launched Royal Bhutan Lottery Limited (RBLL) to oversee all lottery operations. (Source)
- Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay personally announced the first official draw, called Phuensum Dharim. (Source)
- RBLL aimed to sell tickets within Bhutan first, then expand to India legally. (Source)
- The lottery was designed to generate revenue for Bhutan’s economy while ensuring fair play and avoiding past corruption.
Is Bhutan Lottery Available in India?
One of the biggest questions people ask is whether Bhutan Lottery tickets are sold in India again. The short answer is:
While RBLL had plans to expand back into the Indian market, the government has been cautious due to:
⚠️ No, Bhutan has NOT restarted lottery ticket sales in India.
- Legal complications with previous lottery scams.
- Unlicensed companies in India selling fake “Bhutan Lottery” tickets. (Source)
- The need for agreements between Bhutan and India’s lottery regulators.
Digital Bhutan Lottery?
To modernize, Bhutan Lottery has been exploring online gaming and digital lottery options.
- In 2019, RBLL announced plans for an online lottery platform for Bhutanese players. (Source)
- The platform includes mobile-friendly games like bingo and jackpot draws.
- The system has strict player verification to prevent gambling addiction.
Conclusion: Bhutan Lottery is Active, But Not in India
So, what’s the final verdict? Bhutan Lottery is alive and well, but strictly regulated.
- The lottery was shut down in 2011 but successfully relaunched in 2016.
- It is 100% government-run under Royal Bhutan Lottery Ltd.
- Currently, it only sells tickets within Bhutan—not in India.
- Bhutan is exploring online lottery games for its domestic market.
If Bhutan ever re-enters the Indian market legally, we at LottoBaba will be the first to update you! Stay tuned for more insights on lotteries across the world. 🔥
