This Maharashtra village has banned smartphones for kids under 18 years: Rs 200 fine for a violation

Bansi Gram Panchayat Sarpanch Gajanan Tale believes that during Covid-19, children have become addicted to phones for playing games, watching videos or surfing websites and he feels that phones are not suitable for their age.

“We know there will be difficulties in implementation. But through counselling, these problems can be removed. Penalties will be imposed on them for violating the decision. But this decision was unanimously supported by the villagers. Initially we will give them counseling and if they fail to meet the target we will fine them Rs.200.“

While officials welcomed the restriction, it was unclear whether young people had a say in the decision. Parents also supported the order to keep an eye on their children.

Apart from this, a village in Maharashtra’s Sangli district implemented a daily “digital detox” earlier this year. It encourages students to study and adults to meet with community members or participate in activities such as reading. According to ReportsEvery night at 7pm, a siren goes off to signal the start of a 1.5-hour detox in Mohityanche Vadgaon, during which locals put away their smartphones.