Maharashtra to set up task force as child internet safety efforts fall short

The Maharashtra government will constitute an expert task force to examine the growing concerns around childrenrsquos unregulated use of the internet and social media after acknowledging that existing efforts to ensure online safety have fallen short reported news agency PTIState IT Minister Ashish Shelar made the announcement in the Legislative Council on Wednesday citing rising risks associated with increased digital exposure among minorsGovt admits current measures are inadequateResponding to a query Ashish Shelar said surveys indicate a sharp rise in the use of mobile phones internet platforms and social media among children below 16 years of age in the state reported PTIHe acknowledged that existing awareness programmes and safety initiatives have not delivered the expected results particularly in addressing risks such as cybercrime exposure to inappropriate content and excessive screen time reported PTIRising concerns over childrenrsquos digital habitsThe minister noted that parents experts and social organisations have raised repeated concerns about the impact of prolonged screen exposure on childrenrsquos mental health academic performance and social behaviour reported PTIThere have also been growing demands for regulatory measures such as screentime limits parental controls and agebased restrictions to manage childrenrsquos digital engagement more effectivelyExpert task force to study issue in detailShelar said the proposed task force to be set up by the Information Technology Department will include experts from multiple sectors and will conduct a comprehensive study of childrenrsquos digital usage patterns reported PTIThe panel will examine the extent of social media use among minors its psychological and physical effects and the role of online gaming digital advertising and content platforms in shaping behaviourReview of global frameworks and policy optionsThe task force will also analyse existing national and international regulatory frameworks to identify best practices It is expected to recommend legal technical and administrative measures to enhance child safety in the digital space reported PTIThe report will be submitted within a specified timeframe following which the government will decide on further actionPossible steps include regulations and awareness drivesThe minister said the state is considering multiple measures including strengthening awareness campaigns improving coordination between schools and parents and if necessary introducing legal provisions to regulate childrenrsquos use of digital platforms reported PTIFocus on safe and responsible technology useShelar emphasised that the objective is not to restrict access entirely but to promote responsible and safe use of technology while safeguarding childrenrsquos wellbeing reported PTIThe proposed initiative reflects growing recognition of the challenges posed by rapid digital adoption and the need for updated policies to protect younger usersWith inputs from PTI