In a bold move to safeguard young minds, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced on Friday that the state government will impose a strict ban on social media usage for children under 13 years of age. Speaking in the state assembly during discussions on the Appropriation Bill, Naidu emphasized the urgency of this measure, stating that concrete steps will be taken within 90 days to enforce the prohibition.
The decision comes amid growing concerns over the addictive nature of social platforms and their detrimental impact on children’s attention spans, academic performance, and mental health. Naidu highlighted that while the ban for under-13s is finalized, guidelines for 13-16-year-olds are still under deliberation. ‘We will act only after building consensus,’ he assured, signaling a collaborative approach involving stakeholders.
This initiative builds on earlier efforts within the state. Last month, Home Minister Vangalapudi Anita informed the assembly about a sub-committee’s review of measures in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, where similar restrictions are being considered. The panel has held two meetings, delving into various issues to craft effective legislation targeting school students.
In January, IT and Electronics Minister Nara Lokesh underscored the need for age-appropriate access to social media. He revealed that a Group of Ministers is studying legal frameworks to ensure platforms become safer spaces, particularly for women and children. The focus is on curbing harmful effects, as excessive use is increasingly linked to distractions from studies.
Naidu’s announcement echoes recent actions elsewhere. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah previously declared a ban for those under 16. On February 10, the Telugu Desam Party urged the central government to regulate social media based on age limits. As Andhra Pradesh leads the charge, the nation watches closely, hoping for a balanced digital future where technology empowers rather than endangers the youth.