In a significant step aimed at addressing rising concerns about digital addiction among young users, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh have become the first two states in India to announce restrictions on social media use for children.
The move follows a growing global debate about protecting minors from the negative impact of excessive online exposure. Countries such as Australia and Indonesia have already introduced similar policies.
Different Age Limits in Both States
The Telugu Desam Party (TDP)-led government in Andhra Pradesh has announced that children below 13 years of age will be barred from using social media platforms.
Speaking in the Assembly, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said the government will ensure that the ban for children under 13 is implemented within 90 days. He also indicated that the state is considering extending the restriction to teenagers aged 13 to 16.
Meanwhile, the Congress government in Karnataka, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has proposed a ban on social media use for children under 16 years.
Children Can Still Use Mobile Phones
While presenting the 2026-27 state budget, Siddaramaiah clarified that children will still be allowed to own mobile phones, but access to social media platforms will be restricted.
He stated that the government is preparing an implementation plan and a detailed framework, which will be announced after finalisation.
Aim: Prevent Digital Addiction
The proposed restrictions are intended to reduce problems associated with excessive social media use among teenagers, such as:
Digital addiction
Reduced academic focus
Exposure to harmful content
Sleep disorders and anxiety
Earlier this year, Karnataka's IT Minister Priyank Kharge informed the Assembly that the government was studying measures to promote responsible use of artificial intelligence and social media among children.
The Economic Survey presented to Parliament in January also recommended exploring age-based access controls on online platforms.
Experts and Public Reactions
Psychology experts have welcomed the move. Dr. Sarita Nagaraj, a consultant in child development, said limiting social media exposure could reduce mental health risks among children, including depression, anxiety, sleep deprivation and body-image issues.
However, some parents have raised concerns about the practical challenges of enforcement, especially because many schools now rely on mobile apps and digital platforms for classes and communication.
Political Response
The proposal has also received support from leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Rajya Sabha MP Lahar Singh Siroya welcomed the initiative and said he had earlier raised the issue in Parliament, calling for stronger measures to protect children from the negative impact of smartphones and social media.
Global Trend of Age-Based Restrictions
Globally, several governments are exploring ways to regulate children's access to platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
In 2025, Australia became the first country to introduce a nationwide ban on social media for children under 16, while Indonesia has implemented similar restrictions.