Following Australia’s lead, Andhra Pradesh is considering introducing restrictions on social media use for children under the age of 16 — a move that could mark a first in India. Many believe it would be a progressive and much-needed step, one that could also serve as a model for other states, including Goa.
While cyber risks affect all social media users — active or passive — children remain the most vulnerable. Cyberbullying, identity theft, online grooming, sextortion, stalking, and exposure to harmful content are widespread threats. Due to their age and limited judgment, children are often less equipped to recognize or respond to these dangers.
A First in India? Andhra Pradesh’s Proposal
Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha recently announced that the state government has formed a group of ministers to study the feasibility of restricting or banning access to select social media platforms for children under 16. The committee is led by IT Minister Nara Lokesh and includes ministers from the home and health departments.
The panel will examine global models — particularly Australia’s approach — to determine what framework could work best in the Indian context. Speaking on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Nara Lokesh said that young users often lack the maturity to understand or process the content they encounter online, making a strong legal framework necessary.
In December last year, Australia implemented a pioneering ban preventing children under 16 from accessing major platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X, Snapchat, and YouTube. Under the law, minors are barred from creating new accounts, while existing accounts must be disabled. If Andhra Pradesh follows through, it would become the first Indian state to impose such curbs.
Why Social Media Is a Growing Concern for Children
Advocate Natasha Ramesh Kerkar from Saligao explains that social media can severely impact children who are still forming their identity and worldview. Constant exposure often leads to unhealthy comparisons, body shaming, cyberbullying, and exposure to violent or inappropriate content.
Beyond social pressures, children increasingly face mental health challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction, sleep disturbances, and emotional instability. These issues can spill over into family life, academics, and social relationships.
Parent Tallulah D’silva echoed these concerns, saying unrestricted access opens doors to dangerous online spaces, including gambling, substance abuse content, online bullying, and even the dark web. “Children are too young to fully understand what they are exposed to, which makes them extremely vulnerable,” she said.
Academic Performance and Well-being at Risk
Teachers across schools have observed how excessive social media use affects students’ academic and emotional health. Dr Aida Dourado, a sociology teacher from Salcete, noted that lack of sleep and constant online engagement reduce concentration, increase mood swings, and negatively affect overall well-being.
She added that exposure to the wrong content can divert students from their goals, strain relationships with teachers and peers, and even disrupt family and institutional harmony. Declining interest in academics, unclear career direction, and poor health are increasingly common side effects.
Will a Ban Actually Help?
Supporters argue that limiting social media could help children reconnect with real-world experiences. Tallulah believes children today are missing out on outdoor play, sensory learning, and genuine social interactions. “A restriction could help them rediscover real joy and balance,” she said.
Many educators share this view but stress that implementation must be handled carefully. Dr Dourado warned that an abrupt ban could backfire, especially for children already addicted to digital platforms.
Teacher Bhagyashri Naik from Curtorim pointed out the practical challenges. With smartphones introduced at a very young age, children may find alternative ways to access social media through parents or friends. However, she believes reduced exposure could still improve focus, curb mindless scrolling, and encourage academic engagement.
Experts agree that alongside any restriction, digital literacy and regulated usage are crucial. Teaching children how to use technology responsibly may be just as important as limiting access itself.
