India’s premier tourist state, Goa, is reportedly exploring the possibility of imposing restrictions on children’s use of social media, following the example set by Australia. With over 1 billion internet users nationwide, concerns over the impact of social media on the mental health of minors have intensified, prompting state authorities to examine regulatory measures.
Major technology giants such as Meta, Google’s YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter) count India among their largest markets. While the country is believed to have a substantial population of users under 18, no nationwide ban on social media for minors currently exists, nor have there been indications that the central government intends to implement such restrictions.
Goa’s Minister for Information Technology, Rohan Khaunte, stated that the state government is closely reviewing how Australia has implemented its laws to regulate social media use among children. Speaking to journalists earlier this week, he said,
“If feasible, we aim to implement a similar restriction for children under 16. Full details will be shared in due course.”
The southern state of Andhra Pradesh, with a population exceeding 50 million, is also reportedly considering comparable measures. According to media reports, Andhra Pradesh has recently formed a panel of senior ministers tasked with reviewing global regulatory frameworks and submitting recommendations within a month.
Goa is the smallest state in India in terms of area, with a population of just over 1.5 million. Despite its size, the state is taking a proactive stance on digital safety, reflecting growing concerns about the online wellbeing of young users.
Last year, Australia became the first country to ban children under 16 from accessing social media platforms. In the first month alone, approximately 4.7 million accounts belonging to minors were deactivated. Other countries, including France, Indonesia, and Malaysia, are closely monitoring Australia’s initiative and may consider adopting similar regulations in the near future.
Comparative Overview of Social Media Restrictions for Minors
| Country / State | Population (approx.) | Age Restriction | Current Status | Implementation Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goa, India | 1.5 million | Under 16 | Proposal under review | 2026 (proposed) |
| Andhra Pradesh, India | 50 million+ | Under 16 | Panel reviewing regulations | 2026 (proposed) |
| Australia | 26 million | Under 16 | Ban enforced | 2025 |
| France | 67 million | Under 16 | Monitoring & discussion | 2025–2026 |
| Indonesia | 27 million | Under 16 | Monitoring & discussion | 2025–2026 |
| Malaysia | 33 million | Under 16 | Monitoring & discussion | 2025–2026 |
Experts argue that excessive exposure to social media can adversely affect children’s mental health and cognitive development. By restricting access for minors, state authorities hope to mitigate online risks while promoting safer digital habits. If successfully implemented, Goa and Andhra Pradesh could become the first Indian states to formally regulate social media use for children.