AIIMS Delhi to Launch India’s First Center for Advanced Research on Addictive Behaviours

One of the most innovative aspects of the project is its AI-based predictive model, designed to detect individuals at risk of developing technology addiction.

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi is set to establish India’s first Centre for Advanced Research on Addictive Behaviours (CAR-AB) to tackle the increasing problem of internet and technology addiction among children and adolescents.

Approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the initiative aims to develop evidence-based interventions to address problematic technology use and its impact on mental health.

CAR-AB will focus on prevention, early detection, and intervention strategies to help individuals struggling with excessive technology use.

The center aims to create structured programs for children and adolescents while also supporting parents, educators, and healthcare professionals in recognizing and managing digital addiction.

Beyond direct interventions, AIIMS Delhi will develop educational resources for teachers, school counselors, and healthcare workers to enable them to identify early signs of technology overuse.

Growing Concerns Over Digital Dependence

Technology overuse has emerged as a major public health concern, particularly among young users.

According to Dr Yatan Pal Singh Balhara, faculty in charge of the Behavioural Addictions Clinic (BAC) at AIIMS Delhi, excessive screen time and digital dependency contribute to a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairments.

The Economic Survey of India (2024-25) has also highlighted internet addiction as a growing concern, calling for urgent school and family-level interventions to mitigate its effects.

The widespread use of digital platforms, especially among children, has led to increased stress and social withdrawal, making early detection and structured interventions critical.

AI-Powered Early Detection System

One of the most innovative aspects of the project is its AI-based predictive model, designed to detect individuals at risk of developing technology addiction.

The system will help identify early warning signs by analyzing usage patterns and behavioral data and enable timely interventions to prevent long-term dependency.

With a budget of INR 14 Cr, the initiative is expected to pave the way for a national response to digital addiction and behavioral disorders associated with excessive screen time.

National Collaboration for a Lasting Impact

The CAR-AB initiative will collaborate with schools, colleges, parents, and teachers to tackle digital addiction at its roots.

Experts from Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and other leading medical institutions will contribute to developing innovative, research-driven solutions.

Dr Balhara emphasized that addressing this rising challenge requires a multi-stakeholder approach involving educators, healthcare professionals, families, and policymakers.

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