Shimla, February 5 (IANS). Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu has taken an important step towards improving the educational environment in the state. CM Sukhu on Thursday announced a ban on the use of mobile phones by students in all government and private schools in the state from March 1.
If any student is found with a mobile phone, he will be fined Rs 500 and his phone will be confiscated.
The Chief Minister further said that it will be mandatory for parents to attend school counseling sessions.
The ban was announced at the closing ceremony of the 69th National School Games Under-19 Girls Handball Tournament held at Ghumarwin in Bilaspur district.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized that the government is committed to providing world-class education, which will enable local students to compete at the global level.
Under the new rules, students will no longer be allowed to bring mobile phones into the school premises.
Giving details of the strict enforcement measures, the Chief Minister said that any student found in possession of a phone will be fined Rs 500 and his phone will be confiscated.
The Chief Minister said that it has been observed that use of mobile phones during lunch breaks and school hours distracts students from their studies and mutual development.
Citing his own experience as a government school student, he reiterated his commitment to giving priority to the quality of education.
Apart from educational reforms, Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted efforts to promote sports and sports tourism in the state.
He announced that the government will provide employment opportunities to female athletes from the state participating in the Asian Games. Celebrating the victory of Himachal team in the National Handball Championship, he announced a cash prize of Rs 20 lakh.
The Chief Minister also informed that the government has significantly increased the daily food allowance for student-athletes. It has been reduced to Rs 400 for competitions organized within the state and Rs 500 for national competitions.
Also, players traveling more than 200 kilometers for competitions will now be provided air travel facilities to ensure their convenience and best performance.
–IANS
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