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?
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 **economic productivity** among India's youth.
Why is digital addiction a concern for India's economy?
Digital addiction reduces **productivity, focus, and educational outcomes** among India's youth — a large working-age population that is critical to the country's demographic dividend and economic potential.
What did the Economic Survey 2025-26 recommend for digital addiction?
The Economic Survey called for **policy interventions to address digital addiction** — including awareness campaigns, screen time regulation for minors, and mental health support systems.
What is the link between digital addiction and India's demographic dividend?
India's **demographic dividend** depends on a **productive, skilled youth workforce**. Digital addiction threatens to undermine this by reducing educational achievement, attention spans, and mental health of the young population.
What screen-related issues does the Economic Survey 2025-26 highlight?
The survey highlights **screen addiction, social media dependency, reduced attention spans, anxiety, depression**, and declining academic performance as consequences of unregulated screen time in India's youth.
