SHIMLA:  The Sukhu government in Himachal Pradesh  has introduced a dress code for government school teachers.

The government says it will improve discipline and create a role model image for students.

Male teachers must wear formal trousers and shirts. Female teachers must wear sarees or salwar suits. No jeans, leggings, or casual wear allowed.

The official reason? To maintain simplicity and prevent misconduct in schools.

But is dress really the problem? Will changing outfits fix the education system?

Who Will Pay for the Uniforms?

Another question remains unanswered. Who will pay for these uniforms? Will the government provide them?

Or will teachers have to bear the cost themselves? Most teachers in government schools arecwell paid as compared with their privatecounterparts.

Now, they will have  spend from their own pockets for a mandated dress code if it sees light of the day.

What About Teaching Standards?

Education in Himachal’s government schools is in crisis. Many schools lack basic infrastructure and commitmentof the teaching community to produce good results and good citizens. 

The government focus should be on improving classrooms, libraries, and labs.

Instead, attention is on dress codes. Will matching outfits make teachers better educators?

Students’ Uniforms: No Change in Sight

The government wants teachers to dress professionally. But what about students? Schoolchildren in Himachal wear dull and outdated uniforms.

No one talks about changing those. If discipline comes from appearance, why not upgrade student uniforms too?

Private Schools and Dress Codes

Government schools are in for dress code.

But not all Private schools  enforce strict dress codes. For one thing,  Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, requires teachers to wear black coats.

But dress alone does not define quality. Top-ranking schools worldwide focus on teaching methods, not uniforms.

Does a Dress Code Ensure Respect?

Some argue that a formal dress code commands respect. But respect comes from knowledge, teaching skills, and student engagement.

Wearing a suit does not make a teacher more effective. A well-dressed teacher with poor teaching skills is still a poor teacher.

Where is the Research?

Before imposing a dress code, did the government study its impact? Which top education experts recommended this?

Where is the evidence that a dress code improves education? No answers. Just a sudden decision to change appearances instead of addressing real problems.

Education Needs Real Reform, Not Cosmetic Fixes

Himachal’s education system needs serious reforms. Schools need better facilities. Teachers need better training. Students need modern learning tools. But instead, the focus is on clothes.

The government must rethink its priorities. A dress code will not improve education. Better policies will. The real question remains: Who will fix the system while everyone debates uniforms?