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Goa backs social media curbs for under-16s, pushes for only ‘beneficial use of technology'
Goa IT minister Rohan Khaunte announced plans to finalize and share an intention to ban social media use for children under 16, following consultations with industry and academia. The move follows earlier statements about setting up a committee and broader central discussions on age-based restrictions.
Why It Matters
The announcement signals a regional push for stricter age-based limits on social media use in India, contributing to a nationwide debate and potential policy developments at the state and central levels.
Timeline
3 Events
April 29, 2026: Goa to submit comprehensive document outlining intent to ban under-16 social media use
April 29, 2026
After a meeting with industry and academia experts, Goa IT Minister Rohan Khaunte said the state will soon finalise and submit a comprehensive document outlining its intention to ban social media use for children under 16 to Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. He framed the goal as restricting detrimental use while promoting beneficial technology and educational tools.
March 2026: Goa IT minister says a committee was set up to advise on under-16 social media ban
March 2026
Goa IT Minister Rohan Khaunte said in March that he had established a committee to advise the government on drawing up a ban on social media use for children under 16, citing parental complaints as motivation for the move.
February 2026: Centre holds consultations on age-based social media restrictions, Vaishnaw says
February 2026
In February, Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated in a press conference that the central government is holding consultations with various social media platforms on age-based restrictions. This reflects ongoing national discussions on restricting access for younger users.