With smartphones becoming common in both cities and villages, the Bihar government has flagged rising screen time among children as a matter of urgent concern. Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Monday told the Assembly that the state is working towards a policy to regulate minors’ exposure to social media and online gaming. The move comes amid growing anxiety over falling attention spans, sleep problems and behavioural changes linked to excessive device use. To shape its response, the government has sought a detailed study from the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in Bengaluru and will consult stakeholders after receiving the findings.
Choudhary, who also holds the home portfolio, said monitoring screen time is a multi-department issue involving education, health, information technology and women and child development. He said the government will convene a meeting of all stakeholders once the expert report is submitted and then prepare a policy framework.
Also read: Nothing Phone 4a Pro and 4a India launch next week: Check expected specs and price
The issue was raised during Question Hour by JD(U) MLA Samridh Verma, who described excessive screen use as an ‘invisible epidemic’. Citing the Economic Survey 2025–26, he said that digital addiction has been recognised as a nationwide health concern. He further warned that the long hours spent on mobile phones and online platforms are affecting children’s focus, classroom performance and overall behaviour.
Verma pointed to Bihar’s expanding internet reach, especially in rural areas, and said that digital literacy has not kept pace. He noted that while children are being introduced to new technologies, families often lack awareness about safe and balanced usage, especially the elderly people in the family.
Also read: Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, S26 Plus, S26 to launch on Feb 25: Here’s how much they may cost in India
The MLA suggested that digital hygiene should be introduced as a compulsory subject in government schools. He further added that these lessons could guide students on mindful device use and help them identify signs of addiction.
To solve the issue, Verma proposed setting up specialised counselling centres in every district hospital to support affected children and their families. He further recommended using the Jeevika Didi network to spread awareness among rural mothers about managing screen time at home.
Also read: Anthropic accuses Chinese AI firms of misusing Claude, Elon Musk fires back
State Information Technology Minister Shreyasi Singh said her department has also requested the NIMHANS report and assured the House that the government will move ahead with a policy after reviewing it.