‘Excessive screen time destroying creativity, learning’

Srinagar, Feb 25: To address growing concerns over excessive internet use and smartphone dependency, Amar Singh Club Srinagar organised a thought-provoking program titled "Digital Addiction – An Invisible Pandemic."

The event shed light on the harmful effects of excessive screen time, social media overuse, video gaming, e-shopping, and smartphone addiction, particularly among children and youth.

The program was organised by the Secretary of Amar Singh Club Srinagar, Nasir Hamid Khan and was presided over by renowned Supreme Court lawyer and Senior Counsel Advocate Zaffar A. Shah. Several distinguished guests and experts from the education sector participated, sharing valuable insights on the issue.

The discussions focused on the psychological and social consequences of digital addiction, with experts emphasizing the need for parental awareness, school interventions and responsible digital habits. The speakers underscored that while technology is a vital tool in modern life, its excessive use can lead to anxiety, depression, and academic decline, particularly among students.

Adv. Zaffar Shah stated, "Digital addiction is emerging as one of the biggest challenges of our time, impacting not just academic growth but also the physical and mental well-being of children.”

“Education today cannot be limited to textbooks alone; we must integrate sports, outdoor activities, and real-world learning experiences to counter the over-dependence on screens. Parents, schools, civil society and the government must create safe spaces where children can engage in physical activities, as an active lifestyle is crucial for their development. If we do not take immediate action, the consequences will be far-reaching, affecting future generations' ability to think, create and engage with the real world,” he said.

Shah also stressed the role of parents in regulating children's screen time. He urged families to prioritise real-world interactions, promote outdoor activities and monitor digital consumption to ensure children use technology for educational purposes rather than excessive gaming, social media, and entertainment.

Prof. Gul Mohammad Wani remarked, "The days are long gone when education was only about preparing students for exams. In this digital era, where technology has advanced to unprecedented levels, we must rethink how we educate with innovation and creativity. The real challenge lies in guiding our younger generation, especially children, without falling into escapism. Unfortunately, we are not doing enough—not in schools, not in universities and even parents are caught up in their own busy lives."

Prof. Wani emphasized that digital addiction has significantly reduced the habit of book reading, which is a serious concern. He called for immediate measures at all education levels to counter this addiction and implement precautionary steps.

G.N. Var, PSAJK State President, commended the Amar Singh Club management for organising such a crucial discussion and debate, emphasizing that conversations like these are necessary to bring meaningful change to society. He highlighted the role of PSAJK Women’s Wing President Sheikh Ishrat Tanki, under whose leadership 82 women-led schools across urban and rural areas of J&K continue to provide quality education to low-income families, with some students receiving free education.

Var pointed out that teachers hold immense power in shaping young minds. He shared an example of how many parents struggle to control their children’s excessive screen time and often rely on teachers for behavioral correction.

Nasir Hamid Khan, Secretary of Amar Singh Club Srinagar, stated, "Digital addiction is an invisible pandemic silently affecting all age groups. Through this program, our aim is to raise awareness about the harmful effects of excessive internet use, video gaming, social media, e-shopping, and smartphone dependency. It is essential to strike a balance between technology and real-life interactions to safeguard our mental and physical well-being."

Khan stressed that educating the younger generation about the long-term consequences of digital overuse is critical. By promoting mindful technology use, individuals can regain focus, creativity and meaningful social connections, ensuring a healthier and more productive future.