Economic Survey flags digital addiction among India's youth
Economic Survey flags digital addiction among India's youth
New data from India's Economic Survey warns about social media addiction's toll on learning, work, and mental health among teens and young adults.
The Economic Survey 2025-26 flags digital addiction among India's youth, noting that access is no longer the binding constraint for ages 15-29. In a highly digital environment, nearly universal mobile and internet use means more people can learn, work, and participate in society online, but the report warns that compulsive, high-intensity use can carry real economic and social costs. It emphasizes the need for digital hygiene and careful consideration of the types of content consumed online. While access fuels opportunity, excessive engagement can disrupt daily routines and long-term goals, the survey suggests, underscoring the complexity of balancing connectivity with well-being.
The document highlights that digital dependence can dent academic performance, lower workplace productivity, and strain mental health among both youth and adults. It points to consequences such as lost study hours, reduced efficiency at work, and potential financial losses due to risky online behaviors. The overarching message is that easy access coupled with heavy use creates new pressures that policymakers cannot ignore if they want to sustain economic and social gains from digital technologies.
Mental health risks are a central concern. The survey notes elevated anxiety, depression, and lower self-esteem among teens and young adults aged 15-24, echoing findings from various studies. It also flags the risk of gaming disorder and potential spillovers into online gambling, with sleep disruption, aggression, and social withdrawal as possible outcomes for vulnerable groups. In addition, the report draws attention to cyberbullying and online scams, which can add stress and undermine trust in digital platforms. To tackle these challenges, the survey calls for developing a comprehensive set of indicators to assess the multi-dimensional effects of digital addiction interventions and stresses the need for better national data on prevalence and mental health impacts.
Policy implications point toward strengthening digital literacy, promoting responsible content consumption, and improving digital hygiene practices. The findings suggest a broader approach that includes education, healthier online behaviors, and well-designed interventions to mitigate risks while preserving the benefits of ubiquitous connectivity. As India continues to expand its digital footprint, the survey argues that understanding and addressing digital addiction will be crucial for maintaining educational outcomes, productivity, and overall well-being.
