Tinsukia Schools Ordered to Limit Student Backpack Weight

Guwahati: Schools across Tinsukia are under strict orders to reduce the weight of student backpacks to protect children from physical strain. The Regional Office of the Assam State School Education Board issued the directive to all government, provincialised, and private institutions in the district.

The mandate enforces specific weight caps based on grade levels. Students in classes I and II must carry no more than 1.5 kg, while those in classes III through V are limited to 3 kg. For classes VI and VII, the limit is 4 kg. Students in classes VIII and IX are restricted to 4.5 kg, and class X students are capped at 5 kg.

This policy aims to alleviate health concerns, including poor posture and back pain, which experts associate with carrying heavy loads. The Inspector of Schools emphasized that the board will not tolerate negligence regarding these standards. An official notice stated that "violations of the prescribed norms will be viewed seriously" and warned that schools failing to comply may face official disciplinary action.

Local authorities, including the Deputy Commissioner of Tinsukia and the Director of Secondary Education, have been notified of the order. This initiative aligns with broader state efforts to create a healthier environment for students across Assam.