Karnataka Village Implements Two-Hour “Digital Off” to Boost Students’ Focus

In Halga village of Belagavi Taluka, Karnataka, an innovative initiative is capturing attention. Every evening at 7 PM, a siren from the Gram Panchayat signals a two-hour digital blackout, during which all televisions and mobile phones are voluntarily switched off by the villagers. This practice, known as the “Digital Off” campaign, is helping students concentrate better on their studies, especially those preparing for SSLC board exams.

How the Digital Off Works

When the siren sounds at 7 PM, households turn off their digital devices until 9 PM. During this period, children focus on studying while adults dedicate their time to household work and family interactions. The initiative ensures that students remain free from digital distractions during critical study hours.

Purpose and Impact

The campaign was introduced to assist students preparing for secondary school and other board examinations. Parents are encouraged to support the initiative by minimizing interruptions and guiding children to concentrate on their studies. Former Gram Panchayat president emphasized that excessive screen time is harmful and the campaign improves students’ attention and performance. Local resident Rohit Yallurkar noted, “Two hours without TV or mobile phones has significantly enhanced children’s study habits.”

Inspired by Maharashtra, Supported by the Community

The idea was inspired by a similar initiative in Maharashtra aimed at reducing excessive screen time. Women in the village now use these two hours for productive household activities rather than watching TV serials. The campaign has received wide community support and is being hailed as a model that other villages and towns can adopt to improve education outcomes and reduce digital dependency.

The Halga village initiative demonstrates how collective community action can foster discipline, enhance learning, and promote a healthier balance between digital devices and real-life interactions.