LMOTY 2026: Maharashtra May Consider Steps to Limit Social Media Use Among Minors, Says Fadnavis

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that social media platforms are no longer just tools for entertainment but are increasingly influencing the way people think. Speaking at the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Awards 2026 held at the iconic Gateway of India in Mumbai, Fadnavis also discussed the growing concerns around excessive social media use, particularly among children. During the event, Bollywood actor Aamir Khan conducted a special interview with the Chief Minister and raised the issue of whether Maharashtra might consider restrictions on social media usage for minors, similar to steps being discussed in some other states.

Fadnavis noted that many social media platforms rely heavily on Artificial Intelligence-driven algorithms that continuously show users content aligned with their preferences. “All social media platforms, through AI algorithms, keep showing us the kind of content we like. Gradually, this begins to shape and control the way we think,” Fadnavis said. He added that one of the major drawbacks of excessive social media consumption is the decline in people’s ability to concentrate.

“Because of 30-second reels, people are losing interest in watching or reading anything in detail. Earlier, I used to read a lot myself, but now even my reading habits have reduced. This is truly a serious challenge,” he said. The Chief Minister also referred to discussions taking place in several states about restricting social media access for children under the age of 16. “In many parts of the country, there is a growing debate about imposing restrictions on social media use for children below 16 or 17 years of age. We will have to think seriously and arrive at a concrete decision on this issue,” he said. However, Fadnavis clarified that he was not making any immediate announcement regarding a ban.

“I am not saying today whether there will be a ban or not. But the negative impact it is having on children below 16 years must be addressed. The Maharashtra government will certainly explore measures to reduce its harmful effects,” he added.