After Andhra,Karnataka mulls curbs on smartphone use for students under 16

After Andhra, Karnataka mulls curbs on smartphone use for students under 16

After Andhra Pradesh tightened rules on student smartphone use, Karnataka is now examining similar restrictions for children below 16, citing concerns over screen addiction, mental health risks, academic performance and the need for regulated digital exposure in schools. I prefer this response

EPN Desk 22 February 2026 07:35

The Karnataka government is exploring a proposal to restrict mobile phone use among students below the age of 16, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said during a meeting with vice chancellors of government universities, amid growing concerns about social media addiction and its effects on children’s behaviour and education.

The discussion was part of a state-level consultation where Siddaramaiah asked vice chancellors to share their opinions on how such a restriction could be implemented in educational institutions.

He raised alarm over the increasing obsession among children with smartphones and social media platforms, suggesting that it is affecting their academic focus and mental wellbeing.

“Today we are discussing this and as you are all vice chancellors here, I seek your opinion,” the Chief Minister said, noting that many children may be “falling prey to social media addiction.” He pointed to examples from countries like Australia and some European nations that have considered similar steps to limit screen time for minors.

Officials said the push for mobile restrictions stems from rising concerns about excessive smartphone use, which critics argue can contribute to distraction from studies, behavioural changes and possible exposure to harmful online content.

While the government has not yet drafted a formal policy, it is considering seeking broader input from academic leaders to understand practical and enforcement challenges.

The proposed restriction would specifically apply to children under 16 and would be discussed further before any decision is taken.

No official decision or notification has been issued yet, and consultations are expected to continue as the state evaluates how best to balance digital access with safeguards for young students.

The move follows a similar initiative in Andhra Pradesh, where authorities have also discussed stricter limits on mobile and social media use among minors, prompting a wider debate on child wellbeing and digital safety across Indian states.