In today’s rapidly evolving digital era, children are increasingly immersed in mobile phones, online gaming, and social media, often at the cost of their focus, physical health, and emotional well-being. What often begins as mere convenience is fast emerging as a serious behavioural concern, affecting young minds across the country. Excessive screen time has been linked to declining academic performance, disturbed sleep patterns, reduced physical activity, anxiety, and social withdrawal, making early awareness and intervention more crucial than ever.
Recognising this growing challenge, DJJS Bodh, in collaboration with YPSS (Yuva Pariwar Sewa Samiti), conducted a series of school-based awareness programs under the national SANKALP – Drug-Free India (2025–2029) campaign. Implemented as part of the ‘UNPLUGGING’ initiative, these programs were conducted across 17 schools between October and December 2025, reaching students from diverse social and educational backgrounds across Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttarakhand.
The sessions were thoughtfully designed to sensitise students to the impact of excessive screen time on health, behaviour, concentration, and interpersonal relationships, while promoting a mindful and balanced approach to technology use. Rather than discouraging digital tools, the programs encouraged students to practice self-regulation, conscious decision-making, and responsible digital habits, helping them understand that technology is most beneficial when used intentionally and in moderation.
List of Participating Schools:
- Yashvatrao Chauhan Madhyamik Vidyalaya, Pune
- Saraswati Vidhya Mandir, Choukha, Jodhpur
- Rupa Rav Sewda Mahavidhyalay, Keru, Jodhpur
- Madhyamik Vidyalay, Chauhanpur, Bulandshahar
- Rajkrit 10+2 High School & Middle School, Harnaut, Patna
- Tagore Public School, Keru
- Royal Public School, Bareilly
- B.S.B. Excellent Senior Secondary School, Pithoragarh
- Shree Ram Public School, Keru
- OMG International School, Keru
- Government Senior Secondary School, Choukha
- Government Sanskrit School, Keru
- Satguru Public School, Salodi
- Government Senior Secondary School, Keru
- Government Senior Secondary School, Mahadev Nagar, Keru
- Shree Ram Public Senior Secondary School, Salodi
- Lakshya Academy, Choukha
Each session was interactive and age-appropriate, incorporating awareness talks, skits and role-plays based on real-life digital scenarios, group activities, quizzes, mindfulness practices including Om chanting, and reflective discussions. Students actively participated by sharing personal experiences related to mobile usage and gaming habits and were encouraged to take a pledge to adopt healthier digital behaviours.
The campaign reached over 8,500 students and members of the school community, creating a measurable impact in raising awareness around digital overuse. Teachers and school authorities reported positive behavioural shifts, noting increased consciousness among students regarding screen time, improved engagement in mindful practices, and a willingness to make practical changes in daily digital routines.
The UNPLUGGING initiative also received local-level media attention, with coverage through regional print and digital platforms highlighting the relevance of addressing digital overuse among school-going children. Media outreach helped extend the campaign’s message beyond school premises, strengthening community awareness and reinforcing the importance of preventive education.
The success of the UNPLUGGING initiative underscores the effectiveness of experiential learning and early intervention in addressing emerging behavioural addictions. Through this effort, DJJS Bodh and YPSS continue to empower students to become mindful digital citizens, capable of using technology as a tool for growth, learning, and creativity rather than dependence, fostering long-term well-being and balanced living.
The UNPLUGGING initiative is an ongoing effort. Schools or institutions interested in hosting a similar awareness session can learn more about our SANKALP – Drug-Free India campaign through our Instagram channel: https://www.instagram.com/bodh.djjs/
