Andhra Pradesh government's major decision: Social media banned for children under 13

The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh has announced a ban on social media for children under 13. Previously, the Karnataka Chief Minister also banned social media for children under 16.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced a ban on social media for children. This decision by the Andhra Pradesh government comes after Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced a ban on social media for children under 16. Earlier, during the budget session, the Karnataka Chief Minister had announced a ban on social media for children under 16 in the state. The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister has banned social media for children under 13.

Implementation within 90 days

CM N. Chandrababu Naidu announced on Friday, March 6, that social media will be banned for children under 13 in the state. This ban will be implemented in phases over the next 90 days. The government has formulated a policy for this. However, Chandrababu Naidu also stated that the state government is considering whether to extend the ban from 13 to 16 years of age. He added that this decision will be made after policy review and consultation.

On Friday, the Chief Minister of Karnataka also announced a ban on social media for children under the age of 16 during the budget session. However, the Karnataka government has not announced how this will be implemented. Recently, the Chief Minister of Karnataka discussed the possibility of banning children's social media use while speaking with the Vice Chancellor of the State Higher Education Council.

Bans may also be implemented in other states.

In addition to Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, states like Goa, Bihar, and Maharashtra have also formed task forces to ban social media use for children under the age of 16. The Indian government has also recommended age-based restrictions on social media use for children. Several governments, following Australia's example, are implementing or preparing to implement age-based social media restrictions.