PANAJI
The State government has constituted a committee to examine the growing influence of social media on children under 16 and explore possible restrictions.
The first meeting was held today at the Directorate of Information Technology, with participation from government officials, industry representatives, and academic experts.
Speaking after the meeting, IT Minister Rohan Khaunte said that although social media regulation is a central subject, Goa needs to study the issue carefully, taking into account parental concerns, psychological risks, and social and cybersecurity threats. “The focus is not on educational tools but on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, where complaints about harmful influence are rising,” he said.
The minister explained that while children should be encouraged to embrace technology, it is crucial to ensure they are not exposed to content detrimental to their growth. “Children under 16 are just completing their 10th standard. Education up to this stage is important to strengthen their foundation. While giving them access to AI and educational tools, we must also restrict usage of social media platforms like Instagram, reels, and other non-educational content,” he said.
Khaunte said participants shared inputs on potential measures, which the committee will consolidate to create a comprehensive framework. A follow-up meeting is scheduled in a month to review progress and refine recommendations.
He added that once the process is complete, the final report will be submitted through Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who will then take it to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“The aim is a balanced approach,” Khaunte said, adding, “We want children to embrace technology responsibly while addressing social, psychological, and security risks linked to unrestricted social media access.”
