- Teen Suicides Raise urgent alarm
- Nations Debate Digital Restrictions
- A Growing National Concern
Article Today, New Delhi:
India is facing a sharp rise in digital addiction, with excessive smartphone use emerging as a serious social and public health concern. Experts warn that prolonged screen exposure is affecting mental health, weakening social bonds, and altering behavior patterns across age groups. The problem is no longer limited to urban lifestyles and has spread deep into households nationwide.
Tragedy in Ghaziabad
The gravity of the crisis became evident after a disturbing incident in Ghaziabad, where three teenage girls died by suicide after jumping from a residential building. Police investigations revealed that their father had confiscated their mobile phones nearly two weeks earlier. The girls were reportedly deeply immersed in online content and had minimal offline social interaction after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Life Confined to Screens
According to preliminary findings, the teenagers had withdrawn from regular schooling and neighbourhood interactions. They spent most of their time consuming digital content, particularly foreign pop culture, through smartphones. Investigators believe that the sudden loss of digital access triggered acute emotional distress, leading to the tragic outcome.
Alarming National Statistics
Meanwhile, official data underline the scale of the issue. The Economic Survey notes that Indians spent nearly 100 billion hours on smartphones in 2024. On average, an individual now spends about five hours a day on mobile screens. India ranks among the top three globally in screen time, following Indonesia and Brazil.
Social Media Dominance
In addition, a significant share of this screen time is devoted to social media, gaming, and online entertainment. More than 350 million Indians are estimated to be active social media users. Analysts observe that such patterns are reshaping attention spans and daily routines, particularly among adolescents and young adults.
Impact on Children
Health professionals report that excessive phone use among children is linked to sleep deprivation, irritability, social withdrawal, and declining academic interest. Over time, these symptoms may escalate into anxiety and depression. Continuous exposure to screens is also affecting concentration and cognitive development, raising long-term concerns.
Economic Implications
Therefore, policymakers caution that reduced productivity and rising mental health challenges could eventually impact the country’s economic performance. The government has acknowledged the issue and is examining its broader implications on human capital and workforce efficiency.
Global Regulatory Responses
However, several countries have already introduced strict measures. Australia has banned social media access for children under the age of 16. Major platforms are restricted, with exceptions made only for educational and essential communication tools. Heavy financial penalties are imposed on companies that violate these rules.
Calls for Balanced Regulation
Experts argue that India must consider similar safeguards, tailored to its social context. They emphasise parental supervision, age-appropriate access, and stronger digital literacy as key interventions. Controlled exposure, rather than complete denial, is seen as a more sustainable approach.
The Way Forward
Ultimately, specialists stress that technology should remain a tool, not a dependency. Restoring balance between digital and real-world engagement is critical. Families, schools, and institutions are urged to act collectively, as unchecked screen addiction risks turning into a long-term national crisis.
