Overview A new nationwide survey, SCREEN (Student Cyber Resilience, Education, and Empowerment Nationwide) , has revealed that nearly six in ten young Indians experience negative emotional effects from extended time online. The survey also challenges the dominant “stranger danger” narrative, indicating that online risks are more likely to come from people they know than from strangers. The report was released on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 , at the Youth in the Loop Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Key Findings Emotional Impact: Approximately 60% of young people reported negative emotional responses linked to prolonged digital use. Source of Risks: Unwanted contact from known persons was reported by 37.9% of respondents, compared to 23.4% from strangers. Digital Divide: While 77.9% reported household smartphone access, there's a significant urban-rural gap in computer/laptop access: 72.5% in metros vs. 36.5% in rural areas. Digital Literacy: Only 37.1% of respondents could effectively use online reporting or moderation tools. Detailed Analysis The SCREEN survey, conducted among approximately 4,000 young people aged 11 to 30 years , primarily from economically disadvantaged communities, sheds light on the nuanced challenges of online engagement. The finding that risks are more likely to originate from known individuals, such as friends or acquaintances, particularly affects the 17-18 year age group, where over half ( 53.1% ) reported unwanted contact. This underscores the need to move beyond the traditional “stranger danger” narrative in online safety education. The survey also highlights the persistent digital divide. While smartphone access is relatively high, access to computers and laptops reveals a stark urban-rural disparity. This 36% gap has significant implications for education and employment opportunities, particularly in an increasingly digital world. Limited digital literacy further exacerbates these challenges, with a significant portion of young people lacking the skills to effectively use online safety tools. Emotional and Psychological Impact The emotional toll of online engagement is widespread. A quarter of respondents reported feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or experiencing fear of missing out (FOMO), while a similar proportion reported feeling tired or mentally exhausted. Gendered patterns of digital harm were also observed, with girls more likely to report negative social comparison and boys reporting higher levels of gaming compulsion. Support Systems and Coping Mechanisms When facing negative online experiences, friends ( 32.8% ) and parents ( 30.2% ) are the primary sources of support. However, a concerning 14.5% of respondents indicated they told no one, highlighting the need for improved support systems and awareness campaigns. AI chatbots are emerging as a marginal support option, used by 6.4% of respondents. Recommendations and Way Forward Young people overwhelmingly desire improved internet connectivity and speed ( 38.2% ), followed by concerns related to gaming, cybercrime, bullying, and content moderation. The survey findings emphasize the need for online safety approaches that prioritize young people's experiences and go beyond mere regulation. This includes placing young people at the center of policy design to create safer, fairer, and more transparent digital spaces. UPSC Relevance This report is relevant to GS2 (Social Justice) and GS3 (Science and Technology) . It highlights critical issues related to digital inclusion, online safety, and the psychological impact of technology on young people. The findings can inform policy interventions aimed at bridging the digital divide, promoting digital literacy, and creating safer online environments. Important Facts Survey Name: SCREEN (Student Cyber Resilience, Education, and Empowerment Nationwide) Sample Size: Approximately 4,000 young people Age Group: 11 to 30 years Release Date: January 14, 2026 Key Concern: Negative emotional effects from extended online time