A Timely Policy to Safeguard Young Minds
Dr. Jothi Neeraja, Founder, Managing Director, and CEO of People Tree Hospitals and Maarga Mind Care, welcomed Karnataka’s decision to restrict social media access for children under the age of 16. She described the move as a timely and necessary step toward protecting young minds in an increasingly digital world.
She also commended Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for recognising that children’s mental well-being must become a key public policy priority.
Rising Digital Exposure Among Children
India currently has more than 750 million smartphone users, and children are entering the digital ecosystem at a much younger age than before. According to various studies, nearly 60% of children aged 9–17 spend more than three hours daily on social media or gaming platforms.
Furthermore, around 90% of Indian teenagers between the ages of 14 and 16 have access to smartphones at home. As digital access expands rapidly, experts are beginning to observe its growing impact on adolescent behaviour and mental health.
Mental Health Concerns Among Adolescents
Dr. Neeraja noted that the country is already witnessing several mental health challenges linked to excessive digital exposure. These include rising levels of anxiety, sleep disturbances, cyberbullying, and declining self-esteem among adolescents.
As a doctor, mother, and mental health advocate, she emphasised that the effects of unchecked digital exposure are increasingly visible in clinical settings and everyday life.
Creating Healthy Digital Boundaries
As per the press release, Dr. Neeraja explained that the proposed restriction is not intended to limit technology or innovation. Instead, it aims to create healthy boundaries during the most formative years of a child’s emotional and cognitive development.
She added that responsible digital use is essential to ensure that children grow up with balanced lifestyles and healthy mental well-being.
A Call for a National Conversation
Looking ahead, Dr. Neeraja expressed hope that Karnataka’s initiative will encourage broader discussions across the country.
She believes the state’s decision could inspire other states to introduce thoughtful safeguards around children’s digital lives. Such measures, she said, would help restore balance by giving young people more time for play, creativity, real-world relationships, and emotional resilience.
Ultimately, she emphasised that protecting the mental well-being of the next generation must become a collective national priority.