UP govt introduces compulsory newspaper reading for school students

The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced a statewide directive making daily newspaper reading mandatory in government schools, positioning it as an academic tool to strengthen language skills, general awareness, and critical thinking among students.

As per the new instructions, newspapers will be read during morning assemblies, where students will go through major news stories and discuss them under teacher supervision.

The activity is designed to help students build vocabulary, improve comprehension, and develop logical reasoning.

Students will also be encouraged to share at least five new words learned from their reading, adding an interactive element to the exercise.

The Department of Basic Education said the initiative is focused on promoting intellectual development and keeping students informed about current affairs.

Officials believe regular engagement with newspapers will help cultivate reading habits, analytical abilities, self-expression, and a sense of responsible citizenship.

"Arrangements will be made for the regular reading of newspapers during school assembly prayer meetings. Students will read major news items aloud, helping them become familiar with current events while enhancing their language comprehension and thinking abilities. This initiative is a meaningful educational effort aimed at developing reading interest, logical thinking, expression skills, and the values of aware citizenship among children," the Department of Basic Education, Uttar Pradesh, said in a post on X.

The Additional Chief Secretary has further directed that students in classes 9 and 12 be encouraged to write weekly editorials on important issues and take part in group discussions.

These students will also read and discuss news related to social issues and development to strengthen their connection with society.

For classes 6 to 8, schools have been advised to introduce scrapbook activities using newspaper clippings focused on science, the environment, and sports.

Weekly competitions such as Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and newspaper-based quizzes will also be organized to sharpen logical skills.

District Basic Education Officers have been assigned responsibility for ensuring effective implementation of the directive.

Newspapers will be supplied at government expense, and teachers will facilitate discussions on important events and inspiring stories, with officials noting that the move is expected to particularly benefit students in rural areas.