India’s flagship pre-Budget policy document, the Economic Survey 2026, has opened a new front in the country’s digital governance debate by recommending age-based access limits for social media platforms. The proposal reflects growing concern within the government over the impact of excessive social media use on children and adolescents, particularly in areas such as mental health, online safety, and exposure to harmful content.
Presented ahead of the Union Budget, the Survey notes that India’s rapid digital adoption has delivered undeniable economic and social benefits. However, it also warns that unchecked access to algorithm-driven platforms can have long-term consequences for young user
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