School management associations across Karnataka have urged the state government to reconsider any proposal for a total ban on mobile phones for students.
In a memorandum submitted to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the groups argued that prohibition alone will not address the deeper challenges of digital exposure among children.
Instead of an outright ban, they have proposed a structured, Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)-driven framework that promotes responsible and monitored use of mobile devices within educational settings.
DIGITAL LITERACY VERSUS DIGITAL DISTRACTION
Citing findings from the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2024, the memorandum highlights that smartphone access among adolescents is widespread. However, the proportion of students using devices primarily for educational purposes remains relatively low.
The management acknowledged that digital literacy is an integral part of the National Education Policy 2020 vision. At the same time, they warned that unregulated screen time is increasingly linked to reduced academic focus, behavioural concerns, and mental health issues.
PROPOSAL FOR STUDENT INTERNET PACK
One of the key recommendations is the introduction of a government-monitored “Student Internet Pack.” This would provide students with internet access restricted to approved educational platforms during school hours.
The idea is to ensure that devices, where permitted, function as learning tools rather than gateways to entertainment or social media distractions.
AADHAAR-BASED AGE VERIFICATION FOR ONLINE PLATFORMS
The memorandum also calls for stricter digital safeguards beyond school campuses. Among the suggestions is Aadhaar-linked age verification for access to online gaming and social media platforms.
School bodies argue that stronger age authentication mechanisms would help prevent early exposure to inappropriate content and addictive online environments.
RESTRICTIONS FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN IN PUBLIC SPACES
For children below the age of 10, the associations have recommended limiting smartphone usage in public spaces. They believe early and unrestricted exposure to personal devices may hinder social development and real-world interaction.
Mandatory parental consent mechanisms and predefined screen-time limits have also been proposed as part of a broader digital discipline framework.
HOLDING DIGITAL PLATFORMS ACCOUNTABLE
Beyond regulating students and parents, the school associations have stressed the need for accountability from technology companies and social media platforms.
They have called for stricter compliance norms, child-safety filters, and transparent monitoring systems to safeguard young users.
CALL FOR DEDICATED BUDGET AND POLICY FRAMEWORK
The memorandum further urges the Karnataka government to announce a special budget allocation for a comprehensive Student Digital Regulation Policy.
The associations believe that without institutional backing and financial support, implementation of digital safeguards will remain ineffective.
COMPLETE BAN IS NOT A SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION
In conclusion, the school management have maintained that a blanket ban may offer a temporary fix but does not prepare students for a technology-driven world.
They advocate a controlled, monitored, and policy-backed usage model that balances access with accountability.
Their stance underscores a growing consensus: the solution lies not in eliminating technology, but in regulating it responsibly.
