Karnataka proposes 1-hour cap on recreational screen time for students under digital detox policy

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Karnataka is working on a draft Policy for Responsible Digital Use Among Students, proposing a one-hour daily cap on recreational screen time amid growing concerns over technology addiction and its impact on mental health.

Among other measures, the draft suggests developing age-appropriate devices and operating systems that evolve with the child’s age. It also proposes a 'child plan' for mobile phones, including audio-only options and automatic data shutdown by 7pm to limit late-evening screen exposure.

The policy, prepared by Department of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with Karnataka State Mental Health Authority (KSMHA), National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), and Department of Education, targets students from Classes 9 to 12, along with teachers and parents.

Also, read: Karnataka plans social media ban for children under 16, says CM Siddaramaiah

The move comes after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, in his Budget speech, announced that the state plans to ban social media use for children under 16 to mitigate the adverse effects of excessive mobile usage.

"Studies indicate that nearly 25 percent of adolescents show signs of internet addiction, often linked to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and attention-related issues", it said.

Cap on screen time, digital literacy push

At the core of the proposal is a recommendation to limit recreational screen time to not more than one hour per day, excluding academic use.

Schools will be required to integrate digital well-being and social media literacy into existing curricula such as life skills, value education, and ICT. The policy proposes educating students on online safety, consent, privacy, digital footprints, and respectful online behaviour. It also suggests curating recommended online resources for academic use to reduce unnecessary browsing and screen exposure.

Mandatory digital use policies in schools

The draft mandates each school to formulate a Digital Use Policy, outlining protocols for cyberbullying, limits on device usage, and teacher responsibilities in regulating digital exposure.

It discourages direct communication between teachers and students through platforms such as WhatsApp, recommending a return to traditional diary-based communication systems.

Guidelines on the use of artificial intelligence in assignments, including plagiarism checks, have also been proposed.

Digital safety panels, early warning systems

The policy proposes setting up Digital Safety and Wellness Committees in all schools, comprising school heads, counsellors, teachers, and optionally parents, students, and cybercrime police officials.

Teachers will be trained to identify early warning signs of excessive digital use, including behavioural changes, social withdrawal, and declining academic performance. Schools will also maintain confidential records and ensure access to counselling, with referrals to mental health professionals where required.

Push for offline activities, ‘digital detox’ drives

To reduce dependence on devices, the draft recommends incorporating daily offline activities such as sports, reading, arts, and mindfulness into school routines. Schools may introduce tech-free periods, celebrate 'Digital Detox Weeks' or 'Offline Joy Days' at least once per term, and even observe initiatives such as 'No-Technology November'.

The policy also encourages integrating vocational and activity-based learning, including art, music, and skill-building programmes, to promote healthier habits among students.

Parents key to enforcement

The policy places significant emphasis on parental involvement, urging families to set clear screen-time rules, create device-free zones at home, and establish structured daily routines.

It recommends tech-free family rituals such as shared meals, storytelling sessions, and outdoor activities, while encouraging parents to engage children in offline social interactions and hobbies.

Parents are also advised to monitor online interactions, promote open communication, and educate children about online risks without resorting to punitive measures.

Multi-stakeholder approach

Officials said the policy has been developed through consultations with government departments, educators, mental health professionals, and civil society groups.

The initiative aims to create a “safe, balanced, and psychologically healthy digital environment” for students through awareness, early intervention, and responsible technology use.