Social Media Usage in India: 2026 Trends and Strategic Recommendations

Our research conducted with a sample of Indian users aged 18–64 highlights how deeply social media is embedded in daily life across the country.

📊 Overall Usage Rates (Highest to Lowest)

PlatformUsage (%)
YouTube94.3%
Facebook82.5%
Instagram79.4%
Telegram51.7%
X (Twitter)27.6%
Snapchat25.3%
Pinterest19.8%
Reddit12.2%
Twitch7.1%

⭐ Key Insights (Based on Daily Usage Data)

General platform usage and daily active usage (logging in at least once per day) can differ significantly. A platform might show moderate overall usage while driving strong daily engagement—or vice versa. For full data, expanded bases, and the complete report, you can contact Datambar to purchase the country report. The insights below are shared in limited scope for decision-makers such as market researchers, advertisers, academics, and students.

• YouTube is the undisputed leader in daily usage: Due to India’s high video‑consumption culture, daily viewing rates are extremely high across all age groups.
Facebook provides strong daily usage across broad audiences: Especially users aged 25–44 regularly log in for news and community purposes.
Instagram generates high daily log‑ins among young users: Reels consumption significantly boosts daily engagement among the 18–34 segment.
Telegram is on the rise: Education groups, news channels, and community‑based interactions increase daily engagement.
Snapchat is widely used for daily messaging and visual communication among young users.
X (Twitter) receives daily visits for news, politics, and especially cricket‑related topics.
Pinterest drives daily usage in lifestyle content: Popular particularly among female users for food, DIY, and fashion categories.

🎯 Strategic Recommendations

• Broad reach and daily engagement: YouTube + Facebook
• Youth targeting: Instagram
• Female‑focused campaigns: Instagram + Pinterest
• Male and agenda‑driven content: X (Twitter)

• Community communication and announcements: Telegram

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This study was conducted between January 5 and 23, 2026, with a nationally representative sample of 600 individuals aged 18 to 64, using an online panel and the CAWI methodology. The sample was determined with a 95% confidence level and a ±4 margin of error.

All rights to the research data and visuals are reserved by Datambar. Therefore, no individual or organization may claim ownership of the study by using its data or visuals. The research data and visuals may be shared, provided that proper reference is given.