Himachal Schools Go Phone-Free to Boost Focus and Well-being
In a move aimed at creating a more focused and healthier learning environment, the Directorate of School Education in Himachal Pradesh has announced a complete ban on mobile phone use during school hours in all government schools. The directive, issued in September 2025, applies to both students and teachers.
The department cited mobile phones as a major source of distraction, noting their negative impact on academic performance and student well-being. The notification also pointed to the social, psychological, and physical downsides of excessive phone use—such as stress, anxiety, eye strain, and reduced physical activity.
Under the new rules:
- Students are not allowed to bring mobile phones to school at all.
- Teachers must keep their phones away from classrooms, storing them in designated areas like the staff room, preferably under CCTV surveillance.
- Schools are required to display these rules clearly on notice boards.
- A working landline phone must be available in every school for emergency communication, with the number shared with parents.
Deputy Directors of Education have been instructed to ensure that all school heads implement the directive immediately. Schools are also expected to monitor compliance and take disciplinary action if needed.
The goal? A distraction-free, engaging classroom where students and teachers can connect better—without screens getting in the way.
