New Delhi: The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi will set up the country’s first dedicated centre to address internet and technology addiction among children and youth.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has approved the proposal for the Centre for Advanced Research on Addictive Behaviours (CAR-AB), which will focus on prevention, early detection, and intervention.
Addressing Internet and Tech Addiction
The Economic Survey of India (2024-25) has linked the rise in mental health issues among children and adolescents to excessive internet use. The new centre aims to develop evidence-based interventions to tackle problematic technology use. Dr Yatan Pal Singh Balhara, who leads AIIMS Delhi’s Behavioral Addictions Clinic (BAC), emphasized that the increasing screen time among young individuals has become a public health concern.
“This centre will focus on prevention, screening, and intervention to manage excessive technology use. We need structured measures at school and family levels to address this growing issue,” Dr. Balhara said.
Developing AI-Powered Predictive Models
The Rs 14 crore project will also focus on developing AI-driven predictive models to identify individuals at risk of internet addiction. It aims to create a national network involving schools, colleges, parents, and experts from IITs and medical institutions to collaborate on research and interventions.
Additionally, the centre will create training materials for healthcare and education professionals to help them recognize and manage technology-related addiction. The proposed strategies also aim to reduce stress, depression, and anxiety linked to excessive internet use.
A Nationwide Effort
CAR-AB will partner with educational institutions, parents, and medical experts to ensure a multi-disciplinary approach to tackling technology addiction. The centre’s research and intervention strategies could serve as a model for similar initiatives in the future.
By addressing the issue at a policy and research level, AIIMS Delhi aims to provide long-term solutions for managing digital dependency among India’s youth.
