India, July 15 -- The Gujarat Government is examining the possibility of introducing a regulatory framework for the use of social media and artificial intelligence (AI) tools by children below the age of 16, drawing lessons from measures adopted in Australia and other European countries, according to official sources.

Officials said the proposed framework would not be limited to social media but would also address the growing use of AI-powered tools by students. The move follows increasing concerns among educators and policymakers about the potential impact of excessive digital engagement on children's mental well-being, attention span, behaviour, and independent thinking.

The Education Department is studying policy models implemented i...