Defying Digital Dependency: Himachal Bans Mobile Phone Use By Students, Teachers In Govt Schools

Last Updated:September 20, 2025, 06:37 IST

Schools have been directed to ensure the availability of a functional landline telephone and to provide its number to parents and guardians

According to the Department of Education, the rationale behind the ban is to address a range of issues, from academic underperformance to mental and physical health concerns. (Representational photo)

In a significant policy decision aimed at enhancing the academic environment and curbing digital distractions, the Himachal Pradesh government has imposed a complete ban on the use of mobile phones by both students and teachers during school hours. The directive, issued on Friday by the Directorate of School Education, applies to all government schools across the state.

The official order explicitly states that students are completely prohibited from bringing mobile phones to school. For teachers, the ban is a measure to ensure focused instruction and meaningful interaction with students. The directive requires teachers to deposit their mobile devices in the staff room or a designated secure location under CCTV surveillance before entering classrooms. The move comes as a response to growing concerns over the negative impacts of excessive mobile phone use, which officials have identified as a major cause of distraction, not just for students but for educators as well.

According to the Department of Education, the rationale behind the ban is to address a range of issues, from academic underperformance to mental and physical health concerns. The order highlighted that constant use of mobile phones can lead to psychological issues such as anxiety, stress, sleep disturbances, and social isolation. Furthermore, it cited physical problems like eye strain, hearing issues, and a sedentary lifestyle as direct consequences of prolonged gadget use.

To address the practical concerns of communication during emergencies, schools have been directed to ensure the availability of a functional landline telephone and to provide its number to parents and guardians. This ensures that a crucial channel of communication remains open without compromising the integrity of the new policy. The successful implementation of this ban will depend on the cooperation of all stakeholders and will be closely monitored by deputy directors of education, with schools required to prominently display the new rules on their notice boards. This policy positions Himachal Pradesh among a growing number of regions globally that are actively working to reclaim classrooms from digital dependency.

Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Stay updated with the latest education! Get real-time updates on board exam results 2025, entrance exams such as JEE Mains, Advanced, NEET, and more. Find out top schools, colleges, courses and more. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated.

News education-career Defying Digital Dependency: Himachal Bans Mobile Phone Use By Students, Teachers In Govt Schools

Read More