HT Correspondent
BISWANATH CHARIALI, Aug 30: In an era focused on educational progress and overall development, a pressing concern often overlooked is the weight of school bags that children bear. Despite commendable efforts by the Education department to address this issue through bag weight regulations introduced on November 24, 2020, many schools have yet to fully implement these guidelines. The burden of heavy school bags can extend beyond the physical strain on a child’s growing body, impacting their well-being, learning experience, and potentially leading to future health issues.
Nishant Thard, the state president of the National Human Rights and Crime Control Bureau (NHRCCB) in Assam, highlighted this concern. In a statement provided to the newspaper by Mrinmay Kr Nath, the state media officer of the organisation, Thard stated that the Education and Health departments’ initiative to regulate bag weight is a positive step. This initiative recognises the importance of protecting the health and development of future generations. The guidelines not only aim to reduce physical stress on students but also promote a balanced education that fosters mental and physical growth without excessive pressure.
The policy outlines bag weight ranges for different classes, starting from pre-primary up to classes 11 and 12. However, it’s disappointing to see that some educational institutions have yet to fully implement these regulations. Thard highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts between schools, parents, school management committees, and education boards to address this issue effectively.
Schools need to understand that holistic education goes beyond textbooks and exams—it involves nurturing both healthy minds and bodies. Parents, too, should engage in open conversations with schools to ensure compliance with these regulations and advocate for their children’s well-being. By reducing the weight of school bags, we can create a brighter and healthier future for our children, Thard said in a statement.
