The issue was raised during question hour by JD(U) MLA Samridh Verma.

Bihar to Introduce Policy on Children’s Screen Time and Social Media Usage, Seeks NIMHANS Report

The Bihar government is preparing to formulate a policy aimed at regulating screen time and social media exposure among children, Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary informed the state Assembly on Monday.

Choudhary, who also holds the Home portfolio, said the government has requested a detailed report from the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, to study the issue. “The matter of controlling screen time and online gaming among minors is a serious concern. It involves multiple sectors and stakeholders. Once we receive the report from NIMHANS, a meeting with all relevant stakeholders will be held to draft a comprehensive policy,” he added.

The issue was raised during question hour by JD(U) MLA Samridh Verma, who described excessive screen use as an “invisible epidemic” affecting the future of Bihar’s children. Verma referred to the Economic Survey 2025-26, noting it identifies this as a national health concern.

He highlighted that overuse of social media and online platforms can lead to behavioural changes and reduced focus. Verma suggested that digital hygiene lessons should be mandatory in government schools and specialised addiction counselling centres established in every district hospital. He also proposed using the Jeevika Didi network to educate rural mothers on managing children’s screen time.

Responding to the concerns, state IT Minister Shreyasi Singh confirmed that the department has approached NIMHANS for the report and assured that the government would introduce a policy to address these challenges.

Source: The Tribune