New Delhi, Jan. 29 -- The risks of digital addiction go far beyond individual physical and mental health, and can significantly hurt the economy and productivity.

The Economic Survey has, for the first time, cautioned against the deep impact of digital addiction on India's economy. It weighs the benefits of internet access, such as learning, jobs, and civic participation, against the economic and social risks, ranging from lost study hours and reduced productivity to healthcare burdens and financial losses resulting from risky online behaviours, to conclude that digital addiction is becoming a pressing economic concern.

"Beyond direct economic costs from online purchases, gaming, and cyber fraud, it can reduce employability, productivit...