In the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, authorities have banned the use of smartphones in colleges and universities, according to the Hindustan Times.

“The restriction will provide a more appropriate learning environment for students,” the newspaper said in a statement to the Uttar Pradesh Higher Education Authority. The ban applies to both students and teachers of all state universities.

Since June 1, Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh's chief minister, has banned the use of smartphones at local government meetings. The decision was made after some ministers and officials were distracted by reading messages in instant messengers.

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