Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh education department has issued a strict directive banning the use of mobile phones by both students and teachers during school hours in all government schools across the state. The move aims to restore focus in classrooms, encourage meaningful teacher-student engagement, and reduce distractions caused by excessive gadget use.
Directive Issued by Education Department

The order was issued by Ashish Kohli, Director of School Education, who highlighted that mobile phones have become a major source of distraction. The circular emphasized that consistent use of phones negatively impacts both academic and non-academic performance of students.
Why Phones Are Banned in Schools
According to the directive, mobile phones not only disturb classroom learning but also contribute to psychological and physical health issues. Excessive usage has been linked to:
- Anxiety and stress
- Sleep disturbances
- Aloofness and social isolation
- Eye strain, hearing problems, and posture issues
- A sedentary lifestyle
By banning phones, the department hopes to improve classroom discipline and support healthier student lifestyles.
Complete Ban for Students
Students have been completely barred from bringing mobile phones to schools. Authorities believe this step will reduce unnecessary distractions and create a more focused academic environment.
Restrictions on Teachers’ Mobile Use
The ban is not limited to students. Teachers too have been instructed not to use their mobile phones inside classrooms. Instead, they are required to keep their devices in staff rooms or designated secure areas monitored by CCTV.
This ensures that teachers set an example for students while giving their undivided attention to teaching.
Emergency Measures in Place
The education department acknowledged that emergencies may arise. To handle such situations, schools must provide landline telephone facilities and share these numbers with guardians.
This ensures that parents can reach schools whenever required, without disrupting the no-phone policy.
Monitoring and Compliance
The directive assigns responsibility to all deputy directors of education to ensure strict implementation of the rules. Inspections and monitoring will be carried out to verify compliance across all schools in Himachal Pradesh.
The government has made it clear that no leniency will be tolerated if schools or staff fail to follow these guidelines.
Broader Implications of the Phone Ban
The move is part of a broader effort to strengthen the academic environment in schools. By reducing gadget dependency, authorities believe students will engage more in face-to-face communication, extracurricular activities, and collaborative learning.
Experts also suggest that such steps could reduce digital addiction and promote healthier habits among children and adolescents.
FAQs on Himachal Pradesh School Mobile Ban
Q1: Who does the mobile phone ban apply to in Himachal schools?
A1: The ban applies to both students and teachers in all government schools across the state.
Q2: Can students carry phones to school for emergencies?
A2: No. Students are completely prohibited from bringing phones to school. Emergency communication will be handled via landline facilities provided by schools.
Q3: What rules apply to teachers under this directive?
A3: Teachers cannot use mobiles inside classrooms. They must keep their phones in the staff room or designated secure locations under CCTV surveillance.
Q4: How will parents contact schools during emergencies?
A4: Schools have been directed to provide landline telephone numbers to guardians for all urgent communications.
Q5: Who will ensure compliance with the mobile ban?
A5: Deputy directors of education have been tasked with ensuring strict enforcement of the order in all government schools.