KKN  Gurugram Desk | In a major push towards digital transformation in education, the Bihar government has announced the distribution of tablets to over 81,000 government schools across the state. As part of a broader strategy to modernize learning infrastructure, the initiative will not only equip schools with digital devices but also provide teachers with proper training to effectively integrate technology into the classroom.

According to the official directive issued by Mayank Warwade, Director of the Bihar Education Project Council (BEPC), district education officers and district program officers have been instructed to oversee the implementation and ensure smooth execution at the ground level.

 Tablets for Primary, Middle, Secondary, and Higher Secondary Schools

Under this program, each primary and middle school will receive two tablets, while secondary and higher secondary schools will receive two to three tablets depending on their student strength.

This marks a significant step in Bihar’s efforts to bridge the digital divide in government education and provide students with access to digital tools and e-learning resources.

The move is aligned with the Digital India mission and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasize the integration of technology in teaching and learning processes.

 Structured Distribution and Inventory Management

As per the official guidelines:

• Tablets will be distributed at the block level, based on the number of schools in each block.

• Distribution will be handled through Block Education Offices or Block Resource Centers (BRCs).

• Each district must maintain a detailed record of tablet distribution and submit delivery challans to the state office.

• At the district level, a comprehensive inventory will be maintained to track device allocation and ensure transparency.

This structured and decentralized approach is designed to avoid logistical issues and ensure equitable access to tablets across all government schools.

 Teacher Training to Enhance Digital Competency

Recognizing that digital devices alone do not guarantee digital learning, the Bihar government has made provisions for comprehensive training for headmasters and teachers. After receiving tablets, educators will be trained on:

• How to operate and manage tablets effectively

• Use of e-learning applications and educational software

• Creating and managing digital classroom content

• Safe and responsible use of technology in schools

This move is expected to boost teachers’ confidence in adopting technology and improve their digital literacy, which is essential for the success of smart classrooms.

Computer Classes to Begin in 31,000+ Middle Schools

In another major decision, the Education Department of Bihar has also announced the rollout of computer classes in over 31,000 government middle schools. The Finance Department has already approved this proposal, and the implementation will begin in the first phase this year.

These computer classes will include:

• Installation of computer labs

• Smart class setups

• Introduction of basic computer education curriculum

• Regular maintenance and technical support

This is in continuation of the state’s earlier move to implement ICT-based education in secondary schools, which had received positive feedback from students and educators.

 Empowering Students Through Digital Education

The introduction of tablets and computer classes aims to empower students, especially in rural and underprivileged areas, by providing:

• Access to quality digital content

• Exposure to basic computer skills and coding

• Improved student engagement through audio-visual learning

• Bridging the learning gap in remote areas

The initiative will help students in Bihar stay updated with 21st-century education standards and build confidence to compete with students from private schools and urban centers.

Why This Move Matters: Key Benefits

1. Digital Inclusivity

By ensuring that even rural government schools get access to tablets, Bihar is taking a major step toward reducing the digital divide among students from various socio-economic backgrounds.

2. Teacher Empowerment

Training programs will ensure that educators are not left behind in the digital transformation, equipping them with tools and knowledge to teach more effectively.

3. Curriculum Enrichment

With smart classes and tablets, teachers can access a wide range of multimedia content to enhance their classroom teaching, making learning more interactive and efficient.

4. Administrative Efficiency

With digital tools, attendance, assessment, and lesson planning can become more streamlined, reducing paperwork and enhancing data accuracy.

 Challenges That Lie Ahead

While the initiative is visionary, it is not without challenges. Key hurdles that must be addressed include:

• Ensuring timely and uniform delivery of tablets to all schools

• Providing consistent electricity and internet connectivity, especially in remote areas

• Maintaining security of devices and preventing misuse or damage

• Regular technical support and device maintenance

To truly benefit from this digital push, the government must also monitor usage and effectiveness, not just distribution.

 Comparative Perspective: How Bihar Aligns with Other States

With this move, Bihar joins the ranks of states like Kerala, Delhi, and Karnataka, which have already taken proactive steps to introduce technology in public education.

However, Bihar’s approach is notable because of the sheer scale of distribution (81,000 schools) and its focus on teacher training and middle school computer literacy, which could set a benchmark for other states.

 What Experts Say

Education experts and digital learning advocates have welcomed the move. According to them:

• “This is a crucial step for Bihar to catch up with the digital revolution in education. But success depends on long-term vision and consistent implementation.”

Non-governmental organizations and private partners in EdTech are also expected to collaborate with the state in offering content, teacher training modules, and monitoring support.

The decision to provide tablets to over 81,000 government schools, along with introducing computer classes in 31,000+ middle schools, is a transformative step for Bihar’s education ecosystem. It reflects the state’s commitment to bridging the digital divide, modernizing government schools, and empowering both teachers and students with 21st-century skills.

If implemented effectively and sustainably, this initiative can redefine classroom learning across the state and serve as a model for digital education reform in India.