No more lockdown in Karnataka, clarifies minister

News Network

September 24, 2020

Bengaluru, Sept 24: In a strong bid to scotch the rumour about the imposition of lockdown again, Karnataka Medical Education Minister, Dr. K. Sudhakar on Thursday said there was no proposal before the state government to reimpose lockdown.

Speaking to reporters here, Sudhakar clarified that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did suggest imposing the lockdown, but it was not mandatory for anyone of the states which participated in Wednesday’s interaction with him. “It was more of a suggestion from his side rather than a direction. Moreover, I do not see any reason to implement it in Karnataka,” he explained.

Quoting Prime Minister Modi, Sudhakar asserted that the state governments need to focus more on the micro-containment zones. “It was a fruitful discussion. Let none should misinterpret or misguide people in the state or elsewhere. There will be no seal down also,” he retorted in response to a question.

While Tourism Minister, C.T. Ravi asserted that the state government was in favour of increasing awareness about Covid-19 and there was no talk on lockdown within the government. “What needs to be done is people should strictly follow safety protocols, if at all we want to fight this dreaded virus. There will be no lockdown in Bengaluru or elsewhere in the state,” he claimed.

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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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