The Karnataka government is considering banning students under the age of 16 from using mobile phones, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah starting consultations with vice-chancellors of universities as part of efforts to address concerns about social media addiction and its effects on children.
At the meeting held by the Karnataka State Higher Education Council, Siddaramaiah said the proposal was still at the discussion stage and sought the views of the vice-chancellors on whether restrictions should be imposed on minors.
“Today we are discussing this matter, and since you are all vice-chancellors here, I am seeking your opinion. Children are falling prey to drugs. Also, in line with many other countries, like Australia, there is an idea to ban mobile phones among students. I want your opinion on this matter. We are looking into this matter,” he said.
The Prime Minister indicated that the proposed measure would apply only to minors and would not affect adult students at universities. He also instructed the vice chancellors to take steps to ensure that educational institutions remain drug-free, stressing his concern about the risks facing young people.
According to officials, the consultations reflect growing concern within the government about the impact of smartphones and social media on student behaviour, mental health and academic progress. Siddaramaiah warned that excessive exposure to digital platforms affects children’s development and increases their vulnerability to harmful influences.
No decision has been announced, and the government is currently seeking feedback before deciding whether to impose any restrictions or how to implement them.
The discussions come amid a broader debate within Karnataka state and across India about regulating children’s access to smartphones and social media. Earlier this year, Priyank Karg, the state IT minister, told the association that the government was considering steps to address the impact of digital platforms on minors.
“Finland has taken a decision, the UK is also considering similar measures, and Australia received a call two months ago to ban children’s exposure to social media,” he told the General Assembly in January. “We are also discussing what needs to be done regarding the responsible use of artificial intelligence and social media. It is under discussion.”
Karg said that the state of Karnataka has launched a “digital detox” program involving about 300,000 students and 100,000 teachers, in cooperation with Meta, with the aim of encouraging more responsible use of technology.
Other Indian states, including Andhra Pradesh and Goa, are considering similar measures amid concerns about the psychological and social effects of excessive screen time.
Nationally, the latest India Economic Survey warned that compulsive digital use among youth is affecting academic performance and productivity, and recommended preventive measures such as age verification and restrictions on certain platform features.
Many countries have already introduced restrictions based on age. Australia has enacted a law banning social media use for children under 16, while France and Denmark have agreed limits for younger teens. Similar proposals are now being considered in Finland and the United Kingdom.
