Vaishnaw Urges Holistic Assessment of Social Media's Societal Impact
In a recent interview with PTI, Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw underscored the critical need to evaluate the role of social media through the lens of societal harmony and trust. The minister emphasized that these foundational values, built and cemented over millennia, must be safeguarded in the digital age.
Balancing Benefits with Broader Societal Concerns
Vaishnaw acknowledged that social media has emerged as one of the most important modes of information dissemination, outreach, and learning. However, he stressed that its growing influence necessitates a clear assessment of its broader impact. The minister posed pivotal questions: "Is social media able to add to that trust or is it disrupting society? Is it adding value or is it creating friction in the society?" He insisted these aspects require thorough evaluation to ensure platforms contribute positively, maintain trustworthy content, and perform due diligence.
The minister's remarks came in response to queries about government action regarding widespread concerns over the ill-effects of online platforms, particularly on children. Vaishnaw highlighted the necessity of verifying whether content is trustworthy and if platforms adhere to stipulated norms and policies.
Economic Survey Highlights Digital Risks and Policy Suggestions
Vaishnaw referenced the latest Economic Survey 2025-26, which has "rightly pointed out" issues surrounding online platforms. The survey, tabled in Parliament, calls for schools to play a critical role in shaping children's digital habits and promoting simpler devices for educational content to prevent exposure to harmful material.
It specifically recommends considering policies on age-based access limits, noting that younger users are more vulnerable to compulsive use and harmful content. The survey advocates making platforms responsible for enforcing age verification and age-appropriate defaults, especially for social media, gambling apps, auto-play features, and targeted advertising.
Government and Institutional Responses to Digital Challenges
During a media interaction following the survey's release, Chief Economic Advisor V. Anantha Nageswaran mentioned that state governments in Andhra Pradesh and Goa are contemplating policies on age-based access to online platforms. He clarified that such measures need not be solely policy-driven but should involve civil societies, educational institutions, and parents, with policy acting as a supportive framework.
When asked if the Indian government is considering a policy similar to Australia's regulations on children's social media use, Nageswaran stated he had no information on such contemplation. The survey further emphasizes that online platforms should enforce age verification and promote simpler devices with safeguards to address the rising problem of digital addiction.
Accountability and Legislative Recommendations
Last month, Vaishnaw reiterated that social media firms must take responsibility for the content they publish. He cited recommendations from a parliamentary standing committee, which has urged the government to enact a tough law to hold social media and intermediary platforms accountable for peddling fake content and news.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has advocated for enhanced accountability measures to combat misinformation. Vaishnaw's consistent message aligns with a broader governmental focus on ensuring that digital advancements do not erode the social fabric but instead foster a harmonious and trustworthy society.
