- Under-16 Access Set Blocked
- Australian Model Guides Policy
- Child Safety Drives Legislation
- A Growing Digital Concern
Article Today, Davos:
Smartphones have become central to children’s daily lives. However, excessive exposure to social media platforms has raised concerns among parents and policymakers. The Andhra Pradesh government has now signalled a decisive intervention to protect minors from digital harm.
Announcement from Davos
Speaking during his visit to Davos, Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh said the State was considering a complete ban on social media access for children below 16 years of age. He said the proposal was aimed at addressing rising cyber risks and mental health stress among minors.
Australia as Reference
The Minister said the proposed framework draws inspiration from Australia, which recently enacted legislation restricting social media access for children under 16. That law places responsibility on platforms to prevent underage usage. Andhra Pradesh is studying the model to assess its legal and technical feasibility at the State level.
Scope of the Restriction
The proposed law is expected to apply to major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, Snapchat, and similar services. The government believes that current self-regulatory mechanisms are insufficient to shield children from harmful content and addictive design patterns.
Technology-led Enforcement
However, enforcement poses significant challenges. Officials acknowledge that users can bypass restrictions through technical means. Therefore, the government is exploring age-verification technologies, including digital identity checks and biometric validation, to ensure compliance. Penalties for violations may extend to platform operators.
Rising Cyber Threats
Meanwhile, officials point to a sharp increase in cyber offences involving minors. Online harassment, exposure to inappropriate content, and digital addiction have emerged as serious concerns. These factors, the government says, directly affect children’s mental well-being and academic focus.
Parental Response
In addition, the proposal has received positive feedback from many parents. They cite declining physical activity, sleep disorders, and eye strain linked to prolonged screen time. Many believe reduced social media exposure could help children reconnect with outdoor play and learning.
Global Regulatory Shift
The move aligns with a broader global trend. Several countries are tightening regulations on technology companies to protect children online. Courts in India have also taken note of the adverse impact of unchecked social media use among minors.
A Policy in Progress
Therefore, the Andhra Pradesh government maintains that the proposal is part of a larger child protection strategy. Consultations with legal experts, educators, and technology specialists are expected before a final draft is prepared. The government has indicated that further details may be shared in the upcoming Assembly session.
