Published: 29 January 2026General
Economic Survey Flags Digital Addiction as Major Threat to India's Youth and Productivity
The Economic Survey 2025-26, presented on January 29 and analysed in media coverage on January 30, 2026, flagged the rapid rise of digital addiction and screen-related mental health issues as a significant public health threat and risk to India's long-term economic productivity. With internet usage reaching 970 million connections, the Survey noted alarming trends among youth.
Key concerns include: 50% of children aged 5-11 exceed recommended screen time; social media addiction linked to 33% rise in youth anxiety and depression; gaming addiction affecting academic performance; and reduced physical activity. The Survey recommended digital literacy programmes in schools, age-appropriate access controls, and research funding for understanding digital wellness impacts on the workforce.
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Frequently asked questions
What does Economic Survey 2025-26 say about digital addiction among India's youth?
The **Economic Survey 2025-26** flagged the rapid rise of **digital addiction** and screen-related mental health issues as a **significant public health threat** and risk to India's long-term economic productivity. Key data: **50% of children aged 5–11** exceed recommended screen time; social media addiction linked to a **33% rise in youth anxiety and depression**.
What are India's internet usage statistics mentioned in Economic Survey 2025-26?
The **Economic Survey 2025-26** reported India's internet usage reached **970 million connections**. It documented alarming trends: **50% of children aged 5–11** exceed recommended screen time, **gaming addiction** is affecting academic performance, and **social media overuse** has been linked to a **33% rise in youth anxiety and depression**.
What policy recommendations does Economic Survey 2025-26 make to address digital addiction?
The **Economic Survey 2025-26** recommended: **digital literacy programmes** in schools, **age-appropriate access controls** on digital platforms, **research funding** for understanding digital wellness impacts on workforce productivity, and parental guidance mechanisms to limit **excessive screen time** among children.
How does digital addiction threaten India's economic productivity according to the Economic Survey?
The **Economic Survey 2025-26** identified digital addiction as a dual threat: it impacts **individual productivity** through reduced attention spans, disrupted sleep, and mental health issues; and at the macro level, it risks **India's demographic dividend** — if the working-age youth population is impaired by screen addiction, long-term GDP growth potential diminishes.
What percentage of Indian children exceed recommended screen time according to Economic Survey 2025-26?
The **Economic Survey 2025-26** found that **50% of Indian children aged 5–11** exceed the recommended screen time limits. The Survey also noted that **social media addiction** among youth has been linked to a **33% rise in anxiety and depression**, and gaming addiction is adversely affecting academic performance.
