Himachal Pradesh Implements Sweeping Mobile Phone Ban in Schools
In a significant move aimed at enhancing educational focus, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has declared a comprehensive prohibition on the use of mobile phones by students across all government and private schools in the state. The ban is scheduled to take effect from March 1, 2024.
Announcement at National School Games Ceremony
The Chief Minister made this pivotal announcement during the closing ceremony of the 69th National School Games Under-19 Girls Handball Tournament, held in Ghumarwin, Bilaspur district. Addressing the assembled crowd, Sukhu emphasized the state government's unwavering commitment to delivering world-class education that empowers local students to compete effectively on the global stage.
"It was observed that using mobile phones during lunch breaks and school hours distracts students from their studies and interpersonal growth," the CM stated, highlighting the rationale behind the decision. Drawing from his personal experience as a product of the government school system, he reaffirmed his dedication to prioritizing educational quality.
Strict Enforcement and Penalties
Under the new regulations, students will be entirely barred from bringing mobile devices onto school premises. The CM outlined rigorous enforcement measures, specifying that any student found in possession of a phone will face a fine of Rs 500, coupled with immediate confiscation of the device.
Additionally, parents of offending students will be required to attend mandatory counselling sessions at the school. To ensure sustained compliance, the education department has been tasked with drafting a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to address repeated violations and standardize implementation across the state.
Parallel Push for Sports Development
During the same event, Chief Minister Sukhu also unveiled an aggressive strategy to promote sports and sports tourism in Himachal Pradesh. He announced that the state government would provide employment opportunities to female athletes from Himachal who recently participated in the Asian Games, recognizing their achievements and supporting their careers.
To celebrate the victory of the Himachal team in the National Handball Championship, Sukhu declared a cash prize of Rs 20 lakh. Furthermore, he noted significant enhancements in support for student-athletes, including an increase in the daily diet allowance to Rs 400 for events within the state and Rs 500 for national competitions.
In a move to ensure comfort and peak performance, players travelling more than 200 kilometers for competitions will now be provided with air travel facilities. The CM also laid out key infrastructure goals, such as expediting the completion of the indoor stadium in Ghumarwin and the local school building within the next year, alongside the official announcement of a new girls' hostel at Morsingi.
Tournament Highlights and Conclusion
The 69th National School Games concluded with the Himachal Pradesh team securing a gold medal after defeating Rajasthan in the final match. Haryana claimed third place in the tournament, which saw participation from 30 teams across the country, underscoring the event's national significance and competitive spirit.
