The Government of India has initiated robust measures to combat digital addiction by enhancing regulations through the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the Information Technology Rules, 2021. This initiative aims to ensure digital well-being and responsible online participation among citizens. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) is spearheading these efforts by implementing the Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA) project, designed to foster awareness about cyber hygiene and security among the public.

As part of this initiative, over 6,650 awareness workshops have been conducted nationwide, reaching more than 11.37 lakh participants. These sessions target diverse demographics, including students, educators, law enforcement officials, and the general populace, thereby promoting widespread knowledge about safe internet practices.

To further facilitate awareness, the government has produced multilingual materials such as handbooks, posters, short videos, and cartoon stories aimed at children. These resources have been disseminated via multiple channels, including print and electronic media, as well as social platforms and the official websites dedicated to cybersecurity.

Collaborative Efforts in Education and Cyber Safety

The Ministry of Education has introduced the PRAGYATA Guidelines on Digital Education in July 2020, which outline a framework for safe online learning. These guidelines emphasise student well-being and the responsible use of social media and technology. In addition to this, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has adopted additional measures to promote digital etiquette and provided cyber-security training for teachers.

To enrich the learning experience, the CBSE has published the ‘Cyber Security Handbook’ and advised the establishment of Cyber Clubs in schools to raise awareness about online safety. The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has integrated cyber safety into its curriculum, addressing societal impacts in Classes XI and XII, while the CIET-NCERT has developed related resource materials.

Moreover, the recent amendments to the IT Rules require social media platforms to act promptly by removing unlawful content within three hours of receiving a court order or notification from the government, further strengthening online user protection.

Legislative Measures Addressing Digital Addiction

The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 establishes a legal framework to govern the processing of personal data online, paying particular attention to children’s privacy. It mandates parental consent for processing minors’ data and prohibits harmful practices such as targeted advertising aimed at children.

In parallel, the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025 addresses concerns surrounding digital addiction and potential financial risks among young people. The Ministry of Electronics has noted that Section 79(3) (b) of the IT Act allows for the removal of unlawful content on complaint, with numerous actions being taken against intermediaries and OTT platforms violating regulations.

In the last two years, the government has prohibited access to 50 OTT platforms for displaying obscene content and breaching various sections of the IT Act and related statutes. This action underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding citizens, especially youth, from adverse digital influences.

According to the Economic Survey 2025-26, digital addiction poses a significant public health issue affecting children and adolescents aged 15-29, who have unprecedented access to smartphones and the internet. The survey highlights the negative effects on cognitive growth, academic success, and mental health, illustrating the urgency for continued action in this area.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share