Karnataka to ban social media for users under 16, says CM Siddaramaiah

In a significant move to safeguard children, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on March 6 a statewide prohibition on social media usage for individuals under the age of 16. This decision, part of the annual state Budget presentation, aims to mitigate the negative impacts of increasing mobile device usage and digital platform engagement among minors. Karnataka stands out as the first Indian state to impose such restrictions, a decision that has been under consideration by the state government for several months. This initiative aligns with ongoing discussions in other Indian states, including Andhra Pradesh and Goa, which have also contemplated similar measures. The announcement reflects a broader global trend where nations are contemplating stricter age-related regulations for social media access. Countries like Australia have already implemented bans on social media for users under 16, showcasing a growing commitment to protecting young people in the digital environment. In India, this initiative comes in response to concerns highlighted in the Economic Survey 2025-26 regarding the rising smartphone usage among children and its potential links to mental health issues. During the AI Impact Summit 2026, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized the necessity of age-based regulations, noting that many countries have recognized the need for such policies. The Indian government is actively engaging with social media platforms to explore effective regulatory measures as it moves forward with this initiative, aiming to create a safer online environment for the younger population.