The Karnataka government has proposed a draft policy focused on promoting responsible and balanced digital usage among students, amid rising concerns about the mental and emotional impact of excessive screen exposure. The policy is designed to involve not just students, but also teachers and parents, with an emphasis on improving digital well-being, safeguarding mental health, and encouraging healthier technology habits.
Under the proposed framework, schools would integrate digital literacy and online safety into the curriculum, ensuring that students are educated about responsible internet use from an early stage. A key recommendation is to restrict recreational screen time to a maximum of one hour per day, while also requiring institutions to formulate their own structured digital usage guidelines.
To support effective implementation, the policy proposes the formation of Digital Wellness Committees within schools. These bodies would monitor student behaviour, identify early signs of excessive technology use or dependency, and coordinate counselling or intervention when necessary. The approach aims to move from reactive measures to early detection and prevention.
The policy also assigns significant responsibility to educators and parents. Teachers would be trained to recognise symptoms of digital overuse and manage related behavioural or academic issues, while parents would be encouraged to establish consistent routines at home, enforce limits on screen exposure, and promote offline engagement through physical or creative activities.
In addition, the draft outlines measures such as introducing designated tech-free periods during school hours and increasing participation in outdoor and non-digital activities. It also highlights the need to raise awareness about online risks, including cyberbullying and digital exploitation, ensuring that students are better equipped to navigate digital spaces safely.
To strengthen accountability, the policy recommends establishing monitoring frameworks, reporting systems, and collaboration with mental health experts and cybercrime authorities. The overall objective is to create a structured, supportive ecosystem where technology is used in a balanced and mindful manner.
This move aligns with broader steps taken by the state, including a recent decision to restrict social media access for children below 16 years of age. Together, these initiatives reflect a growing policy-level focus on addressing the long-term effects of digital overexposure and building a healthier environment for students.
