Karnataka’s primary and secondary education minister Madhu Bangarappa announced on Monday that the state government is developing a comprehensive framework to regulate mobile phone and social media use among students under 16, citing rising concerns about its impact on children.

He was responding to questions from MLCs Pratap Nayak and Javare Gowda, who urged immediate and strict action, warning that mobile addiction among children has reached worrying levels.

Speaking during Question Hour in the Karnataka Legislative Council, Bangarappa said that although restrictions on mobile phone use already exist, they have not been effectively enforced. He added that the government is now working on stricter guidelines in consultation with various stakeholders.

“For the first time in India, our government has proposed in the Budget that mobile use should be banned for children below 16 years,” he said.

He pointed out that while mobile phones are banned in schools, students continue to use them outside campus where monitoring is limited. Explaining the rationale, he noted that although phones can support learning, they are increasingly exposing children to unnecessary and harmful content.

“If mobile helps learning, it is fine, but most of what is coming today is not needed. Children absorb whatever input they receive,” he said.

The minister also revealed that the government is coordinating with the IT Department, which has set up a committee to study social media usage. Detailed guidelines are currently being prepared.

In addition, he highlighted the reintroduction of moral education in schools, stating that free moral science textbooks are being distributed and dedicated class periods have been scheduled for the subject.

At the same time, Bangarappa emphasized the need for a balanced approach, acknowledging that mobile phones cannot be entirely eliminated in today’s digital era.

“In this age of AI and modern technology, we cannot remove it completely. We will bring a law to regulate its use,” he said.

The proposal will be presented in the next legislative session after broader consultations. The government plans to seek inputs from parents, experts, and international child organisations before finalising the policy.

“This is about the future of our children. Misuse of social media is a major issue in our country,” he said.

He also recognised concerns about growing dependence on mobile phones among students, adding that strict measures are necessary if it negatively affects their future, while cautioning that a complete ban may not work as children might still find ways to access devices.

The government aims to create a model policy that could serve as a benchmark for the rest of the country.

“Since this is being done for the first time in India, I want it to become an example for others,” he added.

Inputs from PTI

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