Soon, Kids In Gujarat May Have To Limit Mobile Phone, Social Media Usage
Gujarat government plans guidelines to restrict children's mobile and social media usage, promoting outdoor activities and reducing screen time.
The Gujarat government is preparing to introduce guidelines in the state restricting the use of mobile phones and social media by children. On Thursday, the state government said it will soon bring guidelines to regulate the use of social media by children.
The guidelines will focus on reducing screen time for children and taking them out to playing fields and study tables.
Addressing a press conference, state education minister Praful Pansheriya said the aim of the guidelines is to keep children away from electronic devices. "Instead, they have to be brought to the playgrounds and study tables," he said.
The minister added that the guidelines will be formulated in consultation with experts.
"We had earlier issued a government resolution banning mobile phones in primary schools (for children). Now that resolution will be strictly enforced," Pansheriya said.
Under the scheme, teachers, students and parents will be made aware of the guidelines, the minister said, adding, that the initiative will promoted as a campaign.
The move comes after Australia banned the use of social media for children under the age of 16.
As part of the initiative, teachers will be asked to keep children engaged in activities like studies and sports instead of being on social media while using smartphones.
Parents will also be requested not to use social media in front of their children and ensure that children do not use smartphones, Pansheriya said.
Moreover, the minister urged NGOs, religious institutions, and social workers to join the initiative. He also appealed to the people of the state to show a short film in every school to tell the parents about the disadvantages of social media.
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