Karnataka Social Media Ban Below 16 has been proposed by the government of Karnataka as part of the 2026–27 state budget. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the proposal while presenting his 17th budget in the state assembly. The plan aims to reduce the harmful effects of excessive smartphone and social media use among children.

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The government believes that restricting social media access for minors could help protect their mental health, improve academic focus, and support healthier lifestyle habits. The proposal reflects increasing concern among policymakers about the impact of digital platforms on children’s development.

Plan to Restrict Social Media for Minors

The Karnataka Social Media Ban Below 16 proposal seeks to prevent children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms. According to the state government, rising smartphone usage among young users has led to concerns about online addiction, cyberbullying, and exposure to harmful content.

Officials believe that limiting access may encourage children to focus more on studies, outdoor activities, and direct social interaction. The move is also intended to reduce psychological stress and behavioural issues linked to excessive digital engagement.

Announcement in the 2026–27 Budget

The proposal was announced during the presentation of the 2026–27 budget, which estimated total expenditure at about Rs 4,48,004 crore. The budget outlines several development priorities including technology expansion, infrastructure improvement, and innovation-led economic growth.

The Karnataka Social Media Ban Below 16 is one of the key policy ideas discussed as part of the government’s broader strategy to address emerging social challenges in the digital era.

Technology and Innovation Initiatives

Along with the social media regulation proposal, the government announced several technology initiatives. One major project is the Bengaluru Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Innovation Zone, which will be developed under Indian Institute of Science in collaboration with Indian Space Research Organisation and Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation.

The state will also establish two Centres of Excellence in artificial intelligence with support from Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms, and NASSCOM. These initiatives aim to strengthen Karnataka’s position as a technology and innovation hub.

Environmental and Urban Development Measures

The budget also includes environmental and urban management initiatives. A leopard rehabilitation centre will be set up at Bannerghatta Biological Park to care for animals captured from nearby human settlements.

In addition, flood management projects will be implemented in Bengaluru under the Karnataka Water Security and Resilience Programme with support from the World Bank. The programme is expected to cost around Rs 5,000 crore over five years.