Maharashtra Govt Eyes Age Checks, Screen Time Limits for Minors

The Maharashtra government has initiated steps to tackle increasing concerns about the impact of digital technology on children by announcing plans to develop a detailed policy governing social media use among minors. This decision was revealed on Tuesday, with authorities stating that the framework will be based on insights provided by a specially appointed expert task force. The move reflects growing unease about how prolonged exposure to online platforms is shaping young minds. Officials believe that a well-structured policy can help strike a balance between safeguarding children and allowing them to benefit from the positive aspects of digital engagement.

The announcement was made in the State Legislative Assembly by Information Technology Minister Ashish Shelar, who underlined that the digital ecosystem offers significant educational opportunities for children. However, he also pointed out that the increasing influence of social media, online gaming platforms, and various forms of digital content necessitates careful monitoring. According to him, while technology can enhance learning and creativity, unregulated exposure may pose risks to children’s mental, physical, and academic well-being, making it essential for the government to introduce structured and thoughtful oversight measures.

To better understand the issue, the government set up an expert task force on February 2 to examine the wide-ranging effects of social media and online gaming on minors. This panel has been assigned the responsibility of evaluating psychological, physical, educational, and advertising-related impacts associated with digital usage. The committee has been given a deadline of three months to submit its findings. Authorities said the task force is closely studying patterns of social media usage among children and is also reviewing regulatory frameworks adopted across India as well as in other countries to identify best practices.

Based on the recommendations submitted by the panel, the state government is expected to explore multiple policy measures aimed at improving digital safety for minors. These may include amendments to existing information technology regulations, introduction of strict age-verification systems, and the imposition of limits on screen time. Additionally, there are discussions about incorporating digital safety awareness into school syllabi so that children are educated about responsible online behaviour. The government is also considering awareness campaigns and training initiatives designed for students, parents, and teachers to ensure a holistic approach to online safety.

Despite concerns raised by some quarters, the government has made it clear that it does not support a complete ban on social media use for young people. Minister Ashish Shelar stated in the Assembly that prohibiting access to mobile phones or the internet for individuals below the age of 18 would not be a practical solution. Instead, the administration favours a balanced strategy that allows children to benefit from digital tools while putting safeguards in place to minimise risks. This approach aims to encourage responsible usage rather than impose strict prohibitions.

Maharashtra’s move is part of a wider national discussion on protecting children in the digital space. Across India, policymakers have been debating stronger safeguards such as parental controls, stricter age-verification systems, and improved safety standards for online platforms under existing IT regulations. Similar conversations have also taken place in states like Karnataka, where proposals to restrict access for children below 16 years on certain platforms have triggered debates over implementation challenges and privacy concerns, highlighting the complexity of regulating digital usage among minors.