AIIMS Delhi to Establish India's First Center for Combating Internet and Tech Addiction in Youth

AIIMS Delhi is preparing to inaugurate India’s first Centre for Advanced Research on Addictive Behaviours (CAR-AB) to address the growing issue of internet and technology addiction among children and youth.

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), in New Delhi.Credit: PTI Photo

Endorsed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), this initiative aims to develop evidence-based interventions to combat problematic technology use.

Rising Concerns About Digital Dependency

AIIMS Delhi is launching India's first Centre for Advanced Research on Addictive Behaviours (CAR-AB) to tackle the rising issue of internet and technology addiction among children and youth.

“Excessive and problematic use of technology has been recognised as a major public health problem,” said Yatan Pal Singh Balhara, the faculty in charge of the Behavioral Addictions Clinic (BAC) at AIIMS, Delhi, and the lead of the project.

The Economic Survey of India (2024-25) has identified excessive internet usage as a major contributor to mental health challenges among children and adolescents. It also emphasizes the pressing need for interventions at both school and family levels to address this growing concern.

Holistic Approach to Overcoming Digital Addiction

The newly established centre will focus on preventing, detecting early signs, and intervening in internet and technology-related addiction among children and adolescents. Through structured programs, AIIMS aims to offer effective solutions for individuals struggling with excessive technology use while also providing guidance to parents, educators, and healthcare professionals.

Beyond direct interventions, the centre will develop resources for teachers, school counsellors, and healthcare workers, equipping them to identify and address cases of digital addiction. These initiatives are expected to significantly contribute to reducing stress, anxiety, depression, and dependence on digital platforms among young users.

Early Detection with AI Power

A major highlight of the initiative is its AI-powered predictive model designed to identify individuals at risk of excessive technology use. By analyzing data, the system can detect early warning signs and facilitate timely intervention.

With a budget of Rs 14 crore, the project aims to establish the groundwork for a nationwide strategy to address digital addiction and technology-related behavioral disorders.

United Initiative to Tackle Tech Addiction

CAR-AB will partner with schools, colleges, parents, and teachers to build a network that tackles the issue at its core. Experts from the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and leading medical colleges will contribute to developing innovative strategies to combat tech addiction.

Balhara highlighted the need for a multi-stakeholder approach, stressing that addressing this escalating concern requires a joint effort from educators, healthcare professionals, families, and policymakers.

(This Article was originally published by Business Standard)