Syllabus: GS– II & V: Technology

Why in the news?

The Economic Survey 2026 has raised serious concern over the rapid rise of digital addiction among Indian adolescents and youth, warning that unchecked screen dependency could trigger a major mental health crisis. The Survey draws on Indian and global studies showing high prevalence of problematic internet use among the 15–24 age group, with clear links to anxiety, depression and behavioural disorders.

What does the Economic Survey highlight?

The Survey identifies digital addiction as a growing public health challenge with multiple dimensions:

• Social media addiction is strongly associated with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and cyberbullying stress.
• Compulsive scrolling and social comparison increase feelings of inadequacy and emotional distress.
• Gaming disorder, especially among adolescents, is linked to sleep disruption, aggression, social withdrawal and depressive symptoms.
• Online gambling and real-money gaming show evidence of financial stress, anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation.
• Streaming and short-video compulsion are associated with poor sleep hygiene, reduced concentration and heightened stress.

The data and policy gap

A major challenge flagged by the Survey is the absence of comprehensive national data on the prevalence and mental health impact of digital addiction.

This limits targeted interventions, budgeting and integration of digital wellness into national mental health programmes.

The upcoming Second National Mental Health Survey, led by National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, is expected to generate actionable evidence to bridge this gap.

Role of family and social environment

Children often mirror adult behaviour. Excessive screen use by parents normalises digital overuse at home.

Lack of parental guidance and boundaries can turn early exposure into long-term addiction.

The Survey recommends:

• Screen-time limits and device-free hours at home.
• Shared offline activities such as sports, reading and conversation.
• Parental workshops through schools and community centres to recognise addiction signs and use parental control tools.

Steps Taken by Government

India has begun recognising digital addiction as a governance issue:

Digital Detox Initiatives promoted by the government encourage:

• Conscious reduction of non-essential screen time.
• Promotion of offline learning, sports and cultural activities in schools and communities.

Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States, under the national mental health framework, provides counselling support for anxiety and behavioural issues linked to digital overuse.

Educational institutions are encouraged to integrate digital well-being modules and promote balanced technology use.

Policy and regulatory recommendations

The Economic Survey suggests stronger regulatory measures:

• Age-based access limits for vulnerable users.
• Making digital platforms responsible for age verification and age-appropriate defaults, especially for social media, gambling applications, autoplay features and targeted advertising.
• Learning from Australia’s nationwide ban on social media use for children under 16.
• Promoting simpler devices for children, such as basic phones or education-only tablets.
• Network-level safeguards, including family data plans with separate quotas for educational and recreational use, and default blocking of high-risk content.

Urban design and lifestyle factors

Unplanned urban growth in cities like Guwahati has reduced open spaces for sports and recreation.

Lack of neighbourhood playgrounds pushes children indoors, increasing screen dependency.

Access to sports infrastructure and cultural spaces is essential for holistic development and digital balance.

Important terms explained

• Digital addiction: Compulsive and harmful use of digital devices or online platforms.
• Gaming disorder: A recognised behavioural addiction involving loss of control over gaming.
• Digital detox: Conscious reduction or regulation of screen use to restore mental balance.
• Age-based access limits: Restrictions on digital platforms based on user age.
• Thermal comfort (contextual): Environmental comfort affecting housing and lifestyle choices.
• Demand-driven intervention: Policies based on assessed needs rather than fixed targets.

Conclusion

Digital technology is not the enemy; unregulated and excessive use is. The Economic Survey 2026 makes it clear that India stands at a crossroads. A balanced approach—combining family responsibility, school engagement, urban planning, platform accountability and government-led digital detox initiatives—is essential. As the saying goes, charity begins at home: parents and adults must lead by example to ensure that technology empowers, not enslaves, the next generation.

Exam Hook

Key Takeaways:

• Digital addiction is emerging as a public health issue in India.
• Data gaps hinder effective policy responses.
• Digital detox requires family, school, community and regulatory action.

Mains Question:

“Discuss the impact of digital addiction on adolescent mental health in India. Suggest a multi-level strategy involving families, schools and the State to promote digital well-being.”