India is considering stricter regulations to limit social media access for children under the age of 16, following similar debates and policy moves in countries like Australia and France. The proposed curbs come amid growing concerns about the psychological, social, and privacy-related impact of digital platforms on young users. With smartphone penetration rising rapidly across urban and rural India, children are gaining access to social media at increasingly younger ages. Policymakers are now examining whether stronger age-based restrictions are necessary to safeguard minors from online risks. Why the Government Is Concerned One of the primary drivers behind the proposal is the impact of social media on mental health. Studies globally have linked excessive social media use among teenagers to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and sleep disruption. In addition, cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, and online predators remain serious concerns. Data privacy is another critical issue. Children often share personal information without fully understanding long-term consequences. Targeted advertising and algorithm-driven content can influence behavior, purchasing habits, and even worldviews at a vulnerable age. Officials believe that without stricter safeguards, minors may remain exposed to digital environments that are not designed with their safety as a priority. What the Proposed Restrictions Could… Read MoreBusiness Archives – Trak.in – Indian Business of Tech, Mobile & Startups
