Dr. Vijay Garg
At a time when children have begun to consider digital media as the ultimate truth, the Uttar Pradesh government’s initiative to introduce newspaper reading in schools is a welcome step. Making it mandatory for students to read national and international news, along with editorials, for ten minutes during morning assembly is both timely and thoughtful. The daily practice of writing five difficult words on the blackboard with their meanings will further strengthen vocabulary and comprehension.
This effort will not only revive the culture of reading among children but also enhance their word power and general knowledge, while reducing excessive screen time. Gradually, students are likely to develop a sustained interest in reading. By engaging with newspapers, children will grow emotionally, intellectually, and socially. If this campaign continues consistently, it may also rekindle students’ interest in libraries.
Ironically, today children’s fingers remain glued to mobile keyboards instead of turning the pages of books. It is alarming that children below five years of age in India spend more than two hours a day on screens. Surveys reveal that even two-year-olds spend around 1.2 hours daily in front of screens. The situation becomes more critical when nearly one-fourth of children have access to the internet. While countries like Australia have restricted social media access for children below 16, in India even children under ten possess social media accounts.
The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to introduce both English and Hindi newspapers during morning assemblies in all government secondary and basic schools. If private schools also adopt this initiative, its impact would be far-reaching. Children must develop reading habits beyond prescribed textbooks. Numerous surveys still affirm that newspapers remain one of the most reliable sources of information. News undergoes multiple levels of editorial scrutiny before publication, ensuring credibility. In contrast, much of the information circulating on social media lacks verification due to the absence of responsible editorial oversight, allowing vested interests to spread misleading content.
Reading newspapers enables students to develop balanced perspectives through editorials and analytical articles. It enriches their language skills as well. Today, the number of students proficient in their mother tongue is declining. Social media platforms are also eroding childhood innocence, pushing children towards premature adulthood. In the guidance of teachers, exposure to authentic information through newspapers can nurture positive and critical thinking.
This habit of reading will deepen further if parents actively encourage newspaper reading at home. It is essential that such initiatives, once introduced in schools, are sustained with consistency to yield meaningful results.
Dr. Vijay Garg
Retired Principal, Malout, Punjab
