Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks praising Australia’s decision to restrict social media access for children under the age of 16 have triggered discussion over whether India could eventually adopt a similar policy.
At present, however, there is no indication that the Centre is planning a nationwide ban on social media use by children below 16. No proposal or legislation on the issue has been announced.
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PM Modi praises Australia’s approach
During his remarks, PM Modi described Australia’s move as an important step towards safeguarding children from the potential harms associated with social media. He also said India could learn from Australia’s experience in dealing with the issue.
His comments have led to speculation about whether similar age-based restrictions could be explored in India in the future. Even so, the government has not announced any plan to introduce such measures.
Excited to be among the Indian community in Melbourne. Their energy and enthusiasm are truly unmatched. They are one of the strongest pillars of India-Australia friendship. https://t.co/dG9F5vj5jr
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 9, 2026
How Australia’s law works
Australia brought its nationwide under-16 social media restrictions into force in December 2025.
Under the law, social media companies are required to take reasonable steps to stop users below the age of 16 from creating or maintaining accounts on their platforms.
The rules apply to several major platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, X, Reddit, Threads and Twitch.
Some services are excluded from the restrictions. Messaging platforms such as WhatsApp and Messenger, along with YouTube Kids, are exempt.
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The responsibility for implementing the law rests with the social media companies. Children and their parents do not face penalties if the rules are violated. The legislation also does not permit parents to bypass the restrictions by giving consent on behalf of children under 16.
What about India?
For now, there is no official confirmation that India is preparing a similar policy.
While PM Modi’s comments have generated interest, the government has not indicated that an under-16 social media ban is under consideration.
If such a proposal is taken up in the future, issues such as age verification, privacy safeguards, enforcement mechanisms and the scope of platforms covered are likely to become central to the discussion. Until then, Australia’s model remains an example that India has acknowledged but not adopted.
FAQs:
Is India banning social media for children under 16?
No. The government has not announced any proposal or legislation to introduce such a ban.
What did PM Modi say about Australia’s social media ban?
He praised Australia’s move and said India could learn from its experience in protecting children online.