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The Andhra Pradesh government is evaluating a proposal to ban children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms. Speaking to Bloomberg News on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, State IT Minister Nara Lokesh confirmed that the administration is actively studying the "Australian model," which recently saw the implementation of a world-first law barring minors from platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X.

Minister Lokesh emphasized the need to address the "negative impact" social media has on the mental health and well-being of young teenagers. He stated that the government is researching international legislative frameworks to protect the state's youth from digital harms. "We are seriously considering an age-gate for social media," Lokesh told Bloomberg, noting that the goal is to foster a safer online environment for children.

If implemented, Andhra Pradesh would be the first Indian state to introduce such a restrictive age limit for digital platforms. The government is currently exploring the legal feasibility of the move and how age verification technologies could be enforced at a regional level. Officials noted that while social media offers connectivity, the risks of cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate content are significant for younger users.

The state plans to consult with child psychologists, tech experts, and legal professionals before drafting a formal policy. While the proposal is still in the study phase, the administration's intent signals a major shift toward stricter regulation of big tech platforms in India.