India to ban social media apps for children under 16?
India has joined a growing global debate on whether children should have unrestricted access to social media.
After several countries introduced age-based restrictions to protect minors online, the Indian government has started examining whether similar safeguards are needed.
Officials are discussing possible changes to digital laws and consulting social media companies about stricter age verification systems.
While no final decision has been announced, the conversation signals that child safety online has become a serious policy priority.
At present, India does not have a law that completely bans children from using social media platforms. However, the government is reportedly considering restrictions for users under 16 years of age.
Officials are studying international models, particularly the approach adopted by Australia, which introduced a full ban on social media accounts for children under 16.
Sources indicate that India may not opt for a blanket ban like Australia. Instead, policymakers are exploring targeted restrictions — possibly limiting access to certain features or requiring stronger age verification mechanisms.
The focus remains on balancing child protection with digital access.