Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has proposed a ban on social media use for children below the age of 16, citing rising concerns about digital addiction and excessive screen time among young users.

The proposal was announced while presenting the state budget, where chief minister Siddaramaiah said the measure is intended to reduce the impact of growing mobile phone use among children.

“Social media will be banned for children under the age of 16 to prevent the adverse effects of increasing mobile usage. The ban is aimed at preventing the negative impact on children caused by increasing mobile phone usage,” he said.

The decision comes as policymakers increasingly raise questions about the influence of smartphones and online platforms on children’s learning patterns, behaviour, and overall well-being. Officials in the state government have been examining the consequences of prolonged digital exposure among young users and the need for safeguards.

The government had earlier indicated that it was studying international approaches that regulate social media access for minors. Last month, after interacting with vice chancellors at the Karnataka State Higher Education Council, Siddaramaiah said the state was exploring similar age-based restrictions that have been introduced or proposed in other countries.

He also said the government would review these global models before finalising the framework for implementing such restrictions in Karnataka.

If implemented, Karnataka is likely to become the first state in India to introduce a ban on social media access for children under the age of 16.

BI Bureau