Karnataka Social Media Ban Policy and ₹4,48,004 Crore State Budget Outlay

Key facts

• The Karnataka government proposed a ban on social media usage for children under the age of 16 in the tech-state to address digital addiction and online safety concerns.
• Chief Minister (CM) Siddaramaiah announced the proposal during the presentation of his 17th state budget in Bengaluru.
• The Karnataka government proposed a total budget outlay of ₹4,48,004 crore for the state's growth and development.
• The budget highlights include a focus on flood relief and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• The ban aims to prevent the adverse effects of increasing mobile phone usage and negative impacts on minors.
• Karnataka Information Technology (IT) Minister Priyanka Kharge indicated that the state is exploring restrictions on social media access for children.
• The Andhra Pradesh government is considering a ban on mobile phone usage in schools, while Goa is examining restrictions for children below 16 years.