Bhubaneswar, 13 March (H.S.): The issue of growing digital addiction among children in Odisha was raised in the State Assembly on Friday after the 2025–26 Economic Survey indicated that nearly two-thirds of children in the state are affected by excessive digital usage.

Subasini Jena, MLA from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), highlighted the matter in the Assembly and urged the government to consider introducing restrictions on digital usage for children, similar to measures adopted in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

Jena expressed concern over the increasing dependence of children on digital devices, warning that excessive screen time could negatively affect their health, education and overall development.

Responding to the issue, School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond acknowledged the concern and said the government is aware of the growing problem. He assured the House that appropriate measures would be considered in the coming days to address digital addiction among children in the state.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda