Economic Survey Flags Digital Addiction as Health Risk, Calls for Teen Screen Limits

Digital addiction is now officially on India’s public health radar. The Economic Survey 2025–26 has clearly stated that excessive use of social media and online gaming is becoming a serious health concern. It supports screen usage limits for teenagers, stronger platform responsibility, and urgent action before the problem weakens mental health, learning ability, and work productivity.

Why Digital Addiction Is Now a Big Issue

The Economic Survey describes digital addiction among youth and adults as a fast-growing public health concern. It points out that what started as digital inclusion has slowly turned into overuse. Long screen hours are changing how people think, learn, sleep, and interact.

Children and young adults are the most affected. Phones, games, and social media apps are designed to keep users hooked. Always-on internet and algorithm-driven content make it harder to disconnect, even when it harms daily life.

Gaming Disorder and Mental Health Risks

The survey refers to the World Health Organization’s classification of Gaming Disorder. This condition is seen when gaming becomes more important than studies, work, or relationships. People continue playing even after clear harm shows up.

In India, online gaming and short-video apps are spreading fast. Many young users show signs of low attention span, mood swings, anxiety, and poor academic performance. Adults are not untouched either. Workplace focus and sleep cycles are also getting affected.

What the Survey Says About Teen Screen Limits

One of the strongest messages in the survey is about protecting teenagers. It suggests exploring regulatory and community-based models that restrict social media and gaming access for minors.

Examples from other countries are mentioned. China and South Korea tried strict controls, though some were later changed. Singapore follows a self-regulation approach. The survey feels India needs its own balanced system, keeping mental health at the center.

Platform Responsibility and Age Verification

The Economic Survey stresses that digital platforms cannot escape responsibility. It suggests making platforms enforce proper age verification and age-appropriate default settings.

Social media apps, online gaming platforms, gambling apps, and auto-play features need stricter controls. Targeted advertising aimed at minors is also flagged as risky. Without platform-level action, personal discipline alone may not be enough.

Lack of National Data Is a Major Problem

A key challenge highlighted is the lack of solid national data. India does not yet have comprehensive indicators to measure digital addiction levels or their mental health impact.

Because of this data gap, it becomes difficult to design targeted policies or allocate resources properly. The survey clearly states that India needs better tools to measure how digital addiction affects behavior, emotions, learning, and productivity.

Government Steps Already Taken

The survey acknowledges steps already taken by the government. Tele-MANAS, the national mental health helpline, is one such effort. Restrictions on certain online gaming formats have also been introduced.

However, the survey feels these steps alone are not enough. It calls for a broader framework that combines regulation, education, therapy, and community support.

Family-Level and Network-Based Solutions

Apart from laws and platform rules, the survey talks about family-level solutions. One idea is family data plans with separate limits for educational and entertainment apps.

It also suggests content filters with default blocking of high-risk categories. These small changes at the network level can quietly reduce exposure without harsh punishment or pressure.

Offline Spaces as a Strong Alternative

The survey makes an important point. Reducing screen time only works when real-world options exist. It suggests creating offline youth hubs, especially in urban slums and rural areas.

Sports, arts, reading spaces, and skill centers can give young people healthier ways to spend time. Community involvement becomes very important here, not just government action.

Digital Addiction Is Not Only a Youth Problem

While teenagers are the focus, the survey clearly says adults are affected too. Long work hours on screens, constant notifications, and social media scrolling are hurting focus and emotional balance.

The document recommends awareness programs in colleges and workplaces. It also supports the idea of technology-free zones, where people can disconnect without guilt.

Impact on India’s Demographic Dividend

Experts quoted in the survey warn about long-term risks. If digital addiction is ignored, it could weaken India’s demographic dividend. Reduced attention spans, learning gaps, and lower workforce efficiency can slow economic growth.

What should have been a strength may turn into a silent burden if habits are not corrected in time.

Need for a Balanced Digital Future

The Economic Survey does not call for banning technology. It supports smart use. Digital tools are powerful, but unchecked use comes with costs.

The message is clear. India must act early, measure the problem properly, and build habits that support mental health. Digital growth should improve life, not quietly control it.

What Comes Next

The survey opens the door for serious national discussion. Policies, parents, platforms, schools, and communities all have roles to play.

Digital addiction is no longer just a personal issue. It is now a public health concern. How India responds will shape the mental strength of its future generations.