Interestingly, India also recorded strong support among younger respondents.

75% of Indian Parents Support Social Media Ban for Under-16s, Global Study Finds

India has emerged as one of the strongest supporters of restricting social media access for children under 16, with 75 percent of parents backing the move, according to the “Family First” report released by the Varkey Foundation.

The report highlights growing concern among families about the influence of social media on children’s behaviour, values and relationships, as policymakers across the world increasingly debate stricter digital regulations for young users.

Interestingly, India also recorded strong support among younger respondents. Around 73 percent of Gen Z participants favoured restrictions for those under 16, the highest level among all countries surveyed, despite being a generation raised alongside digital platforms.

The global study, conducted across countries including the United States, China, the United Kingdom and Australia, reflects a broad international conversation around balancing access to technology with child safety. Nations such as Australia have already implemented limits, while others are considering similar steps.

In contrast to India’s relatively aligned views, global data shows a clear generational divide. Only 37 percent of individuals under 18 supported such restrictions worldwide, indicating significant differences between parents and children in many regions.

Support for restrictions varied across countries, with Malaysia recording the highest approval, followed by India, while Japan and some other nations reported comparatively lower levels of backing for such measures.

The “Family First” analysis underscores an intensifying global debate on regulating social media use among minors, as governments, educators and families continue to assess the long-term impact of digital platforms on younger generations.