Bengal may ban mobile phones in schools, says CM Suvendu Adhikari

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has hinted at the possibility of banning mobile phones in schools, drawing a parallel with Gujarat's policy where students up to Class 12 are prohibited from carrying mobile phones to school. Adhikari acknowledged that this decision may be politically challenging and could result in losing votes. He pointed out the adverse impact of mobile phones on students, stating that they stay up late into the night, often past 2am, engrossed in their devices.

Addressing the issue during a Teachers' Day program in Kolkata, Adhikari unveiled two new initiatives. The first is the Swami Vivekananda Merit Scholarship Scheme, and the second is the Transfer Management Module of College Teachers. He emphasized that ignoring physical activities and sports in schools has been detrimental. He called for the reintroduction of NCC and traditional games like Kho-kho and kabaddi in schools and colleges.

Adhikari also announced plans to establish two "CM Shri" model schools in each district, designed to nurture top-performing students. These schools, akin to central institutions, would boast the best teachers, advanced laboratories, and smart classrooms. Additionally, the state would set up two sports facilities to train the nation's best talents.

Adhikari underscored the importance of transparent recruitment of School Service Commission members, following Supreme Court and Calcutta High Court directives, to prevent any illegality.

Highlighting the significance of Teachers' Day, Adhikari proposed that teacher appreciation should be based on objective criteria such as school attendance, publication of books, achieving 100% board exam pass rates in their classes, and the subsequent success of students as scientists and doctors. However, he stressed that compromising on the moral integrity of teachers, who do not align with national interests or patriotism, would be unacceptable.