Amethi Bans Digital Homework for Primary Students to Combat Mobile Addiction

Amethi : In a significant move to safeguard the mental well-being of young learners, the Basic Education Department in Amethi has officially banned the practice of assigning homework via mobile phones for students up to Class 5. The directive, issued by District Basic Education Officer (BSA) Sanjay Tiwari, follows a stern recommendation from the Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission.

The decision was prompted by a heart-wrenching incident in Ghaziabad earlier this month, where three sisters reportedly committed suicide. Investigations revealed a severe addiction to mobile gaming. In response, Babita Singh Chauhan, Chairperson of the State Women’s Commission, urged educational authorities to decouple primary education from digital screens to prevent such "psychological distortions."

While there was never a formal government mandate to provide homework via WhatsApp or digital apps, the practice became a "tradition" during the COVID-19 pandemic. Private and government schools continued the trend even after normalcy returned. The new order aims to break this cycle, mandating that all assignments and academic activities be conducted strictly through traditional physical notebooks.

The BSA has instructed all Block Education Officers (BEOs) to ensure strict compliance across all government-aided and private institutions. This move is being hailed as a major relief for:

• Mental Health: Reducing screen time and the risk of gaming addiction.
• Equity: Assisting underprivileged parents who do not own smartphones or high-speed internet.
• Academic Discipline: Re-establishing the direct teacher-student connection through manual writing.

The order clarifies that digital mediums should only be used in "extreme circumstances." Moving forward, the focus returns to the classroom, ensuring that the foundation of early education remains rooted in physical interaction rather than virtual screens.