‘Cap daily screen time at 30-60 minutes’: Authority directs Noida schools

The Gautam Buddh Nagar administration has instructed all schools in Noida and Greater Noida to limit daily screen time for students to 30 minutes for primary classes and 60 minutes for upper-primary classes. This directive follows complaints from parents that children were spending excessive time using smart and digital boards, often for continuous teaching sessions, including textbook display and homework completion.

The administration warns that prolonged screen exposure can lead to eye strain, short-sightedness, headaches, poor concentration, and other health issues. To ensure compliance, designated magistrates and nodal officers will oversee adherence, and schools must maintain proper screen brightness, lighting, and encourage regular breaks.

Online classes should follow NCERT recommendations, including the 20-20-20 rule. Schools are encouraged to promote activity-based learning, reading, sports, and other activities to reduce screen dependence. The administration has also directed quarterly eye examinations and the sharing of results with parents.