Goa Eyes Social Media Ban for Under-16s, Studies Australia's Law

• Goa is considering an Australia-style law to ban social media for children under 16 due to parental concerns over excessive screen time and social impact.
• Tourism and IT Minister Rohan Khaunte confirmed the proposal is under active consideration, with the state's IT department studying Australia's Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act.
• Khaunte highlighted that social media distracts children, affects their focus, behavior, and family interactions, and creates complexities.
• Consultations with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant will precede any final decision, possibly before the next Assembly session.
• Andhra Pradesh is also exploring a similar ban, with a Group of Ministers studying its implications; Australia's law requires platforms to deactivate underage accounts.

Why It Matters: Goa is actively exploring a social media ban for children under 16, mirroring Australia's law, to address parental concerns.