# Schools Still Send Young Children Home With Heavy Bags

2026-08-06T22:50:22+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Hindustan Times reports that schoolbag rules remain poorly enforced despite a 2018 Madras High Court order, ministry directions and the Policy on School Bags 2020. The court asked authorities to keep bags within 10% of a child’s body weight and end homework for Classes 1 and 2. The policy retains the 10% principle while urging practical controls. Schools can reduce daily loads through clearer timetables, fewer notebooks, lockers, drinking-water access and lighter books. The burden also includes lunch boxes, bottles and art materials. The paper says excessive homework can favour children with greater parental support and leave working families at a disadvantage.

## Coverage

- hindustantimes.com <https://www.hindustantimes.com/opinion/the-unbearable-weight-of-learning-in-school-bags-101785858074093.html>

Tags: child health, education policy, homework, school bags, school education
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