The proposal highlights that nearly one in four teenagers show signs of problematic internet use, linking excessive screen time with mental health concerns such as anxiety, sleep disorders, poor academic performance and social isolation, along with risks such as cyberbullying and online exploitation. | Photo credit: PTI
The Karnataka Health Department has opened its draft policy on responsible digital use among students for public feedback and is inviting objections and suggestions till April 15. The draft policy was released last week.
The draft policy, prepared in collaboration with NIMHANS and other stakeholders, is aimed at addressing growing concerns about excessive and unsafe use of digital devices among school children. Students, parents and general public can send their responses through email to dd6mhkar@gmail.com and ddehospital-hfws@karnataka.gov.in.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said: “The public is increasingly aware of the negative effects of mobile phones on health and education, including anxiety, cyberbullying, insomnia and social isolation. You may also notice family members talking less to each other because of mobile phone use. It is disrupting our social fabric.”
“While we have learned to use technology, we have not sufficiently understood its adverse effects, including digital addiction and its impact on the mind,” the minister said, stressing that the policy emphasizes training parents and teachers to help reduce the excessive use of mobile phones among children.
One of four
The proposal highlights that nearly one in four teenagers show signs of problematic internet use, linking excessive screen time with mental health concerns such as anxiety, sleep disorders, poor academic performance and social isolation, along with risks such as cyberbullying and online exploitation.
At its core, the framework promotes digital well-being, emotional resilience and responsible use of technology. It suggests incorporating digital literacy, mental health awareness and cyber safety into school curricula, while adopting a preventative approach focused on early identification and intervention.
Teacher training
“Schools will need to develop their own guidelines for digital use, including setting limits on recreational screen time – a maximum of one hour a day is recommended – tackling cyber-behaviour and ensuring access to counseling support. Teachers will be trained to identify the early signs of digital distress and guide students to appropriate services,” the minister said.
The policy recognizes parents as key stakeholders and calls on them to enforce rules on screen time, create device-free spaces at home and model responsible digital behaviour, while schools are expected to strengthen engagement with families, Mr Rao said.
Published – 01 Apr 2026 20:33 IST
