Memorandum submitted to Goa CM proposes key regulatory measures
Panaji, Goa – In view of the rising incidence of digital addiction among students, Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) has urged the Goa government to introduce restrictions on ‘screen time’, on the lines of the model implemented in Karnataka. The demand was formally submitted to Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant through a memorandum. A delegation of HJS, comprising Advocate Rupesh Gawas and Shri. Pramod Nanoskar, presented the memorandum to the Chief Minister.
HJS’ key demands to address digital addiction among students
- Formulate a comprehensive policy on digital usage in the interest of students.
- Limit non-academic ‘screen time’ for students to one hour per day and restrict internet usage after 7 pm.
- Mandate that every school establish its own ‘digital usage policy’.
- Ensure the availability of effective counselling systems in schools to address issues such as anxiety, sleep deprivation, and reduced concentration arising from excessive internet use.
- Educate students about cyberbullying (harassment, intimidation, or humiliation through social media or online games), privacy, and responsible online conduct.
- Introduce strict regulations on social media usage for children below 16 years of age and encourage the establishment of ‘no-phone zones’ within homes.
- Provide training to parents and teachers to monitor and guide children’s digital behaviour.
The Goa government is also considering imposing restrictions on social media usage for children below 16 years of age and has constituted a committee for this purpose. Hindu Janajagruti Samiti has expressed hope that the government will take a positive decision on its demand to regulate ‘screen time’.