Economic Survey Flags Digital Addiction as National Health Concern, Warns of Mental Erosion
India
M
Moneycontrol•29-01-2026, 13:59
Economic Survey Flags Digital Addiction as National Health Concern, Warns of Mental Erosion
- •The Economic Survey 2026 for the first time classifies digital addiction as a national public-health concern, grouping it with obesity and non-communicable diseases.
- •India is witnessing a surge in behavioral-health risks due to excessive screen time, social-media overuse, and technology-driven compulsions, particularly among adolescents.
- •Excessive screen time is causing 'mental health erosion' with sleep disruption, mood swings, and declining attention spans, alongside 'social distancing' in digitally advanced states.
- •The survey cautions against Generative AI's widespread use by students as a substitute for critical thinking, fearing diminished problem-solving capabilities and national productivity.
- •Proposed solutions include a mandatory 'Digital Wellness Curriculum' in schools, 'Youth Hubs' for offline alternatives, and 'technology-free zones' to rebalance digital engagement.
Why It Matters: Digital addiction is a critical national health concern eroding mental well-being and human capital, requiring urgent policy action.
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