New Delhi, November 26: The Ministry of Human Resource and Development (MHRD) has instructed schools and education departments of all states to formulate guidelines to regulate the teaching of subjects and weight of school bags in accordance with instructions of the government. According to norms, the maximum weight of schoolbag for Class 1 and 2 is 1.5 kilogram and for classes VIII to X, it cannot exceed 5 kg. Universal Children’s Day 2018: Why Your Child’s Biggest Enemy Is The Heavy School Bag, Expert Speaks.

Circular which is rolled out by MHRD states that homework should not be assigned to the students in Class 1 and 2. It further stated students shouldn't be asked to bring the extra book as it will increase the weight. Ministry further directed schools to strictly comply centre's instruction with immediate effect.

A survey by social and preventive medicine (SPM) Srinagar has revealed that around 83.7 per cent of students carry books heavier than 10 per cent of their body weight. The survey also revealed that over 50 per cent of students suffer from a backache. The Centre's guidelines of lightening school bag will be a big relief to students.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 26, 2018 03:30 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).