Digital addiction has emerged as a major public health challenge among children and young people in India, significantly contributing to the country’s worsening mental health crisis, the government warned on Thursday in the Economic Survey 2025-26.
The Survey, presented in Parliament by Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, underlined a clear connection between excessive digital consumption and declining mental well-being among the youth.
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It noted that digital addiction has a direct negative impact on academic outcomes and workplace productivity, largely due to constant distractions, inadequate sleep and reduced attention spans. The report also pointed out that excessive screen time weakens social interactions and erodes social capital, further aggravating mental health concerns.
Acknowledging the seriousness of the issue, the government has rolled out multiple initiatives to encourage safer and more responsible use of digital technology. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued guidelines promoting safe internet practices in schools and even during school commutes.
Additionally, the Ministry of Education has introduced the ‘Pragyatah’ framework to guide digital education planning, with a strong emphasis on regulating screen time. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has also released guidelines recommending screen time limits and enhancing online safety for children.
The Economic Survey stressed that tackling digital addiction will require a coordinated approach involving parents, educators and policymakers to protect the mental health and overall well-being of India’s younger generation.
