# Andhra Pradesh Mulls Australia-Style Social Media Ban for Children Under 16

URL: https://technosports.co.in/andhra-pradesh-mulls-australia-style/  
Published: 2026-01-22  
Updated: 2026-01-22  
Author: Reetam Bodhak

The **[Andhra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andhra_Pradesh)Pradesh government** is considering a *landmark policy* that would restrict social media access for children under the age of 16 — taking inspiration from **Australia’s under-16 social media ban** enacted in late 2025. This proposal, discussed by **IT and Education Minister Nara Lokesh** at the **World Economic Forum in Davos**, reflects growing concern over the impact of unregulated social media on children’s mental health and wellbeing.

## Social Media Ban in Andhra Pradesh

| **Aspect** | **Details** |
| --- | --- |
| **Proposal** | Ban social media use for children under 16 (inspired by Australia) |
| **State** | Andhra Pradesh |
| **Initiator** | Nara Lokesh, IT & Education Minister |
| **Inspiration Model** | Australia’s Online Safety Amendment Act (under-16 ban) |
| **Targeted Platforms** | Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, and more (based on Australia model) |
| **Aim** | Protect children from harmful content, cyberbullying, addictive algorithms |
| **Status** | Under consideration; not yet law |

## Why This Proposal Matters

The idea takes inspiration from **Australia’s Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024**, which prohibits minors under 16 from using major social networks and requires age verification and account deactivation if platforms don’t comply. Australia’s law came into effect on **10 December 2025**, making it the first of its kind globally.

![Andhra Pradesh](https://technosports.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/image-1311.png)

In Andhra Pradesh, Minister Nara Lokesh explained that **many young users may not fully understand the content they encounter online**, potentially exposing them to toxic content, misinformation, and harmful environments. He suggested that a *strong legal framework* might be necessary to protect children’s wellbeing.

This discussion comes amid global debates on the impact of social media on adolescents — mental health experts have linked excessive screen time to anxiety and poor sleep, and numerous jurisdictions are exploring tougher age limits and **age verification technologies**.

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## 🤔 A Broader Global Trend

Countries worldwide — including **the UK and other democracies — are also considering similar policies** that restrict teen social media use or require stricter age checks. Debates balance *child protection* against *digital rights* and *enforcement challenges*.

## ❓ FAQs (Short & Clear)

### **Q: What exactly is Andhra Pradesh proposing regarding social media for kids?**  

Andhra Pradesh is considering a **law similar to Australia’s ban that would stop children under 16 from using major social media platforms**, aiming to protect them from harmful content.

### **Q: Is this proposal already a law?**

No — the plan is *under discussion* and inspired by Australia’s recent law, but has not yet been enacted as legislation in Andhra Pradesh.