Uttar Pradesh mandates daily newspaper reading in government schools to boost literacy and awareness

In a move targeting classroom reading culture and knowledge building, the Uttar Pradesh government has issued a directive making daily newspaper reading compulsory for students in all state‑run basic and secondary schools. The order, released on December 23 by the additional chief secretary for basic and secondary education, seeks to bring print newspapers back into students’ routines as a complement to formal studies.

Under the new guideline, schools must allocate at least ten minutes during their morning assembly for students to read from physical newspapers. Both Hindi and English language publications are to be made available so that pupils can engage with a variety of content. Students are expected to take turns summarizing key points from editorial pieces and major national, international, and sports news during this daily slot.

Officials say the initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen reading habits that have been diminishing in an age dominated by digital media. By encouraging engagement with printed news, the policy aims to help students build vocabulary, improve language comprehension, and stay informed about current affairs in a structured way. Advocates of the directive also highlight potential benefits for critical thinking, arguing that exposure to diverse viewpoints will foster analytical skills and awareness of social issues.

Beyond academics, proponents believe that reading newspapers can help students connect with their community and understand the link between local events and larger national or global developments. Exercises such as word‑of‑the‑day boards, puzzles, and discussions drawn from newspapers are expected to make reading more interactive and mentally stimulating. The order’s supporters also argue that reducing dependence on screens for information can enhance focus and concentration, challenges many teachers have raised in recent years.

The directive builds on earlier efforts by the state education department aimed at nurturing a culture of reading among young learners. Previous instructions included initiatives to promote book reading, limit excessive screen time, and encourage participation in library activities. While the latest order applies to government schools, officials have noted that other educational institutions may adopt similar practices if they find the approach beneficial.

Reactions from educators and parents are mixed. Some see value in structured news engagement to strengthen general knowledge and prepare students for competitive environments, while others question resource availability and how the policy will be implemented across schools with varying capacities. Regardless, the directive highlights ongoing debates about the role of traditional print media in an increasingly digital educational landscape and reflects a broader attempt to balance technological convenience with foundational literacy skills.