HYDERABAD: The Telangana government has put a cap on the weight of bags carried by schoolchildren. The government issued orders on July 18, 2017 prescribing the maximum weights for schoolbags for students from primary classes to Class X.
According to the order, the maximum weight of school bags for each class is as follows:
Classes I and II: 1.5 kg
Class III to V: 2-3 kg
Classes VI and VII: 4 kg
Classes VIII and IX: 4.50 kg
Class X: 5 kg
As per estimates in some districts, schoolchildren currently carry bags weighing 6-12 kg at the primary level and up to 17 kg at the high school level, the order observed.
"This results in severe, adverse physical effects on growing children and can cause damage to their vertebral column, knees. It can also cause anxiety disorders in students," it said.
It’s worse in schools functioning in multi-storied buildings, it said.
The government order also said no home work should be given to children from Classes I to V.