Karnataka to distribute 1.55 lakh laptops to students of govt degree colleges and polytechnics

News Network

December 25, 2020

Bengaluru, Dec 25: Karnataka Government has decided to distribute free laptops to 1.55 lakh students studying in government degree, engineering colleges and polytechnic to promote digital learning, Education Department Commissioner Pradeep said.

He was speaking at a seminar on Global Education Readiness held at the Good Governance Day at the Banquet Hall of the Vidhan Sabha to mark the birthday of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Answering a question from Jamadagni, a scientist at the Indian Institute of Science who hosted the concert, Pradeep said due to Covid, students are currently studying online. "It is only a temporary arrangement. Colleges are just beginning. There will also be live classes. But Deputy Chief Minister Dr C N Ashwatha Narayana, who is also the Minister of Higher Education, intends to provide all kinds of financial support to technically equip students to global standards," he said.

The laptops are being offered to the first-year students of 430 government colleges in the current 2020-21, first and second-year students in 14 government engineering colleges and 87 government polytechnics at the cost of Rs 155.4 crore. If these tabs are not suitable for Engineering students, the purchase of advanced version laptops will be arranged through colleges. Almost all the telecom companies have already dealt with the problem, in order to avoid any interruption to internet access without interrupting students who are pursuing digital or online education in rural areas, he further informed.

High-speed internet service is being provided to enable smart classes and effective learning management systems in every state-owned higher education institute, he added.

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I want laptop for engineering

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Screen silence: Karnataka’s bold ‘switch-off’ strategy to boost SSLC scores

News Network

February 5,2026

In an era where digital distractions are the primary rival to academic excellence, the Karnataka Education Department is taking the fight directly to the living room. As the SSLC (Class 10) annual examinations loom, officials have launched a localized "digital strike" to ensure students aren't losing their competitive edge to scrolling or soap operas.

The 7-to-9 Lockdown

The department has issued a formal directive urging—and in some cases, enforcing via home visits—a total blackout of mobile phones and television sets between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. This two-hour window is being designated as "sacred study time" across the state until the examinations conclude on April 2.

Key Pillars of the Initiative:

• Doorstep Advocacy: Teachers are transitioning from classrooms to living rooms, meeting parents to explain the psychological benefits of a distraction-free environment.

• Parental Accountability: The campaign shifts the burden of discipline from the student to the household, asking parents to lead by example and switch off their own devices.

• The Timeline: The focus remains sharp on the upcoming exam block, scheduled from March 18 to April 2.

"The objective is simple: uninterrupted focus. We are reclaiming the evening hours for the students, ensuring their environment is as prepared as their minds," stated a senior department official.

Student vs. Reality

While the student community has largely welcomed the "forced focus"—with many admitting they lack the willpower to ignore notifications—the move has sparked a debate on enforceability. Without a "TV Police," the success of this initiative rests entirely on the shoulders of parents and the persuasive power of visiting educators.

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