Bihar Government Drafting Policy to Limit Children's Screen Time and Social Media Use

New Measures for Digital Safety

The government of Bihar is currently developing a comprehensive policy aimed at regulating screen time and social media exposure among children, according to reports released on February 23, 2026. This initiative marks a significant step by a state administration to address the growing psychological and physical health concerns linked to excessive digital consumption by minors. Local authorities are increasingly worried about how early exposure to the internet is shaping the development of the youth [1].

The policy is expected to provide structured guidelines for both educational institutions and parents to help manage the time children spend on smartphones, tablets, and computers. By introducing a formal framework, the state hopes to encourage a healthier balance between digital activities and physical engagement. This move comes amid rising global discussions regarding the addictive nature of social algorithms and their impact on developmental milestones [2].

Combatting Social Media Exposure

A primary focus of the proposed policy involves limiting the exposure of children to various social media platforms. Current drafts suggest that the government is looking into ways to minimize the negative influences of unregulated online content, which can often be unsuitable for young audiences. Officials are highlighting the need for age-appropriate digital environments that protect children from cyberbullying and harmful trends [1].

To ensure the policy is effective, the Bihar government is likely to collaborate with cybersecurity experts and child psychologists. The goal is to create a set of recommendations that are practical for families to implement at home while also being enforceable within school settings. This multi-layered approach aims to wrap a safety net around the state's youngest citizens, ensuring they are not left to navigate the complexities of the web without supervision [2].

Addressing Health and Developmental Risks

Physicians and educators in the region have frequently pointed to the adverse effects of high screen time, including decreased attention spans, poor sleep quality, and eye strain. By formalizing a state policy, the government seeks to provide the public with clear warnings and scientifically backed data on why these limits are necessary for long-term health. The policy is intended to be a preventive measure against the lifestyle diseases often associated with sedentary digital habits [1].

Furthermore, the state is looking to bridge the gap between technology and traditional learning. While digital tools are essential for modern education, officials argue that they should not come at the cost of social interaction or cognitive growth. The upcoming guidelines will likely detail 'digital detox' periods and suggest alternative activities that foster creativity and physical fitness among students across Bihar’s districts [2].

Implementation and Community Impact

As the government prepares these regulations, the focus remains on community awareness. It is anticipated that the policy will include training sessions for teachers and awareness campaigns for parents, especially in rural areas where digital literacy might vary. The success of the policy depends heavily on the cooperation of the community and the willingness of parents to monitor their children's online footprints [1].

While the specific details of the enforcement mechanisms are still under review, the announcement has already sparked a conversation about the role of the state in family life and digital governance. Observers are waiting to see how the Bihar government will balance the promotion of technology in schools with these new restrictive measures. As the policy moves toward finalization, it could serve as a model for other Indian states facing similar challenges with the digital generation [2].