Schools in Kashmir declared 'polythene-free' zones

The Director of School Education in Kashmir has declared all schools in the Valley 'polythene- free' zones and directed officials to ensure a ban on sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of schools.

"All schools (government and private) in Kashmir Division are hereby declared as polythene-free zones. It shall be the duty of supervisory teachers to ensure that polythene bags are not allowed into school premises henceforth," Director, School Education, Kashmir, Shah Faesal said in an order issued on Friday.

In another order, the Director asked all CEOs to ensure a ban on sale of tobacco products to minors near every educational institution.

"All CEOs are directed to ensure the ban on sale of tobacco products to minors in all the educational institutions within 100 yards of their schools," the order said.

Faesal also directed the CEOs to furnish monthly reports as a part of a regular monitoring and reporting mechanism.

"The CEOs will furnish monthly report to Directorate of School Education, Kashmir, for follow-up with a copy to the respective Deputy Commissioners as well," the Director said.