Himachal Pradesh imposes complete mobile phone ban during school hours

A complete ban has been imposed on the use of mobile phones by students and teachers during school hours in Himachal Pradesh.

Director, School Education, Ashish Kohli, has directed all deputy directors to ensure strict compliance of the order in the schools under their jurisdiction. As per the order, students will not be allowed to bring mobile phones to school. Teachers, too, have been instructed not to use mobile phones while teaching in classrooms.

“Teachers should keep their phones in the staff room or in designated secure places under CCTV surveillance,” the order read. Schools have been asked to make the facility of landline telephone available, and share the number with parents and guardians so that they can contact their wards in case of emergency.

As per the authorities, the use of mobile phones has been banned to promote meaningful teacher-student interaction and a better academic atmosphere in schools. “Mobiles phones are a major reason for distraction among students. The use of these gadgets consistently disrupts the learning process and has a negative impact on the academic as well as non-academic performance of the students,” Ashish Kohli, said in the order.

He also alluded to mobile phones enhancing social and psychological issues like anxiety, stress, sleep disturbances and aloofness. Besides, physical issues like eye strain, hearing problems, bad posture and a sedentary lifestyle could also be attributed to the excessive use of mobile phones.

The school authorities have been asked to display clear instructions regarding mobile phone restrictions on the notice board to ensure a focused, productive and safe learning environment.