Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced a major proposal that could change how children use social media in the state.
During the presentation of the 2026–27 state budget, the government revealed plans to ban social media access for children under the age of 16.
The move is aimed at reducing the harmful effects of excessive phone and social media use among young people.
According to the government, long hours on social platforms can negatively impact children’s learning, behaviour, and mental health.
The proposal has sparked widespread discussion, especially among parents, teachers, and technology experts.
Why the Government Wants to Restrict Social Media
While presenting the state’s 17th budget, Siddaramaiah said the step is meant to protect children from the growing risks of mobile addiction and excessive screen time.
Experts have increasingly warned that constant exposure to social media can affect concentration, academic performance, and emotional wellbeing.
Children may also face risks such as online bullying, harmful content, and social pressure.
The Chief Minister had already discussed this issue earlier in 2026 with university vice-chancellors and education experts to understand how digital habits are affecting students.
How Will the Ban Work?
At the moment, the government has not shared full details about how the ban will be implemented.
Several important questions are still unanswered, including:
How social media platforms will verify users’ age
Whether parents will have special control tools
What penalties might apply for violations
Whether tech companies will need to cooperate with the state
Because of these unanswered questions, the proposal may require new laws or regulations before it can be fully implemented.
Part of a Larger Budget Plan
The social media restriction was announced as part of Karnataka’s ₹4,48,004 crore state budget.
Along with the proposal, the government also revealed several technology and education initiatives, including:
An AI and robotics innovation zone under the Indian Institute of Science in collaboration with Indian Space Research Organisation and Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation Limited
Artificial Intelligence Centres of Excellence with support from NASSCOM
New programmes focused on sustainability and disaster management
These projects aim to strengthen Karnataka’s technology ecosystem while supporting future innovation.
Countries Around the World Taking Similar Steps
Karnataka’s proposal is not the first of its kind.
Many governments around the world are now trying to limit children’s access to social media.
For example, Australia became the first country to introduce a nationwide ban on social media for children under 16 in December 2025.
The rule blocks underage users from accessing platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X and Reddit.
Several other countries are also planning similar restrictions.
Nations such as Malaysia, Spain, France, Denmark and Portugal have announced or are considering age limits for social media use.
What This Could Mean for Families
If implemented, Karnataka’s proposal could significantly change how children interact with digital platforms.
For parents, it may provide more control over their children’s online habits.
For technology companies, it could mean introducing stronger age verification systems and stricter safety rules.
However, since the policy is still in the proposal stage, more clarity is expected in the coming months about how exactly the ban will work.
