economic-survey-backs-age-bar-on-social-media-cut-online-classes

The Economic Survey 2025–26 has recommended introducing an age-based access limit for social media platforms and reducing online classes to curb rising digital addiction among children and youth. The Survey called on schools, families, and platforms to adopt stricter safeguards.

The Survey noted that younger users are more vulnerable to compulsive use and harmful content. It suggested enforcing age verification, content filters, and age-appropriate defaults, particularly for social media, gambling apps, auto-play features, and targeted advertising.

“Policies on age-based access limits may be considered, as younger users are more vulnerable,” the Survey said. Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran highlighted that states such as Andhra Pradesh and Goa are exploring age-based access rules, though enforcement may extend beyond formal policies to civil society and schools.

Schools were urged to introduce a Digital Wellness Curriculum covering screentime literacy, cyber safety, and mental health awareness. The Survey advised reducing dependence on online teaching tools introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, favouring offline engagement.

Also read: Economic Survey presented in Parliament by Finance Minister

The report called for parental guidance through workshops at schools and community centres to manage screen time, recognise signs of addiction, and use parental control tools effectively. It also promoted simpler devices for children, such as basic phones or education-only tablets, with enforced usage limits and content filters.

The Survey warned that digital addiction, including social media, online gaming, and binge-watching, contributes to anxiety, depression, poor sleep, aggression, and reduced concentration among adolescents. It cited global evidence, including WHO recognition of Gaming Disorder as a mental health concern.

Network-level safeguards, such as family data plans with restricted quotas for educational versus recreational apps, were recommended, along with ISP-level blocking of high-risk content with opt-in overrides for guardians.

The Survey emphasised that a combined approach of policy, parental guidance, education, and technology is essential to address digital addiction while maintaining access to educational resources.