Sridhar Vembu says ban social media for kids, let them read books and play in dirt

Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu has called for a social media ban for young children in India, saying kids should spend more time with books, sunlight and outdoor play. His comments come as several countries debate stricter rules to protect children from online harms.Sridhar Vembu says ban social media for kids, let them read books and play in dirtSridhar Vembu has sparked a debate over children’s social media use after suggesting that India should consider banning social media platforms for young children. The Zoho founder shared his views on X after a post about France passing a law to restrict social media access for children under 15. Reacting to the development, Vembu wrote, "India should ban social media for young children too. I believe young children should read physical books, play in the dirt under the sun and stay away from social media!" Sridhar Vembu wants India to ban social media for kids. His comment came in response to a post by a WION journalist, talking about how countries including France, Australia, Indonesia, the UAE, Malaysia and the UK are taking steps to limit social media access among children. France recently approved a law that will block children under the age of 15 from using social media platforms. The rule, set to come into effect in 2027, will require users to verify their age before accessing these platforms.The move follows Australia, which became the first country to introduce a social media ban for children under 16. However, the Australian experience has also raised questions about whether such restrictions can be effectively enforced, as many teenagers have reportedly continued finding ways to access social platforms. Several governments across the world have been discussing restrictions amid concerns about excessive screen time, addictive algorithms, online safety and the impact of social media on children’s mental health.Vembu’s post divides opinion onlineWhile many users supported Vembu’s suggestion, arguing that children need protection from addictive online content, others questioned whether a complete ban is the right solution. One user agreed with the idea of limiting social media exposure, saying, "Protecting kids from addictive algorithms makes sense. But romanticizing physical books like they’re automatically superior doesn’t. If older means better, why stop at books? Lets go back to palm-leaf scripts or hieroglyphics."The user added that instead of completely keeping children away from social media, platforms should be regulated and children should be taught digital literacy. Another user backed Vembu’s views, saying that reducing social media exposure could help children reconnect with culture, learning and real-world experiences.Some supporters argued that unrestricted access to social media is contributing to addiction among young users and could affect their mental health and future.- EndsPublished By: Ankita GargPublished On: Jul 24, 2026 20:00 IST