LUCKNOW, Dec. 26 -- In an effort to cut down students' screen time and promote reading habits, the Uttar Pradesh basic and secondary education department has made newspaper reading mandatory in government schools across the state.

Elaborate guidelines have been sent to all the district- and state-level officers in the department.

As per the order issued by additional chief secretary (secondary/basic education) Partha Sarthi Sen Sharma on December 23, newspapers should be made an integral part of the daily reading culture in schools to familiarise students with current affairs and help them prepare better for competitive examinations.

"Regular regular helps students improve vocabulary and language style, while various types of articles ...