Editorial | Kashmir’s Growing Screen Addiction

Kashmir is witnessing a growing dependence on mobile phones and digital screens, a habit that is quietly affecting the health, education and social lives of people across age groups. From children spending hours watching videos to young people remaining glued to social media, excessive screen use has become a serious concern that deserves public attention.

Mobile phones have made life easier. They provide access to information, education, communication and entertainment. Students can attend online classes, read books and prepare for examinations. People can stay connected with relatives and friends, even when they live far away. However, when useful technology turns into an uncontrolled habit, its benefits begin to diminish.

In Kashmir, the growing use of smartphones among children and teenagers is particularly concerning. Many children spend hours playing online games, watching short videos and scrolling through social media platforms. Outdoor activities, reading habits and face-to-face interactions often take a back seat. The result is a lifestyle in which entertainment occupies much of the time that could otherwise be spent on learning, physical activity and family relationships.

Excessive screen time can also affect sleep, concentration and emotional well-being. Children who remain on their phones late into the night may struggle to wake up for school, pay attention in class or complete their homework. Constant exposure to carefully designed digital content can make it difficult to remain patient with activities that require sustained attention. Social media comparisons may also create unnecessary pressure, insecurity and anxiety among young users.

Parents and schools have an important role to play in addressing this growing problem. Simply snatching phones away from children is unlikely to provide a lasting solution. Families must set reasonable screen-time limits, encourage outdoor games and make time for meaningful conversations at home. Parents should also examine their own habits. A child who sees adults constantly using phones may find it difficult to understand why they should behave differently.

Schools can help by educating students about responsible technology use and encouraging sports, reading, creative activities and social interaction. Community organisations can also organise awareness programmes to explain the effects of excessive screen use and promote healthier routines.

The responsibility, however, does not rest with children and parents alone. Technology companies must also be encouraged to adopt safer digital practices, particularly for young users. Features such as screen-time reminders, parental controls and age-appropriate content can help families manage digital habits more effectively.

Kashmir must recognise that technology is a tool, not a replacement for real life. Mobile phones should support education, communication and progress, rather than consume every free moment. The aim is not to reject technology but to use it wisely.

A healthier digital culture begins with small changes at home, in schools and across society. The time has come to put down our phones more often, reconnect with people around us and give children the freedom to learn, play and grow beyond their screens.