Karnataka's New Digital Detox Policy: Combating Student Tech Addiction

The Karnataka government has unveiled a draft policy addressing excessive digital technology use among students. The policy focuses on mental health, cyber safety, and responsible digital behavior, highlighting issues like anxiety and social isolation. It promotes digital literacy, resilience, and regulatory strategies for students' mental well-being and responsible technology usage.

The Karnataka government announced a comprehensive draft policy on Wednesday aimed at combating the growing concerns around the overuse and unsafe practices of digital technology among students. With a strong emphasis on mental health, cyber safety, and responsible digital behavior, the policy is set to reformulate the educational framework concerning technology use.

State Health Minister, Dinesh Gundu Rao, highlighted the community's growing awareness regarding the adverse effects of mobile phones on health and education. The disruptions range from heightened anxiety, cyber-bullying, and sleep disorder to severe social isolation. Minister Rao stressed the importance of understanding digital addiction and its mental impacts.

Developed by the Department of Health and Family Welfare, in partnership with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurological Sciences (NIMHANS), the policy aims to foster digital well-being, emotional resilience, and responsible technology usage. It proposes state-level guidelines, training programs, and the integration of digital wellness into curriculums, emphasizing early intervention and school-level digital wellness oversight.

(With inputs from agencies.)