‘It’s about care’: Parents welcome Tamil Nadu’s water bell initiative in schools

As the new academic year progresses in Tamil Nadu, schools across the state are now actively implementing the “water bell” system – a health initiative by the Tamil Nadu government that has gained momentum since its official launch last week. The state school education department’s directive, aimed at easing the impact of dehydration on students’ performance, has transformed daily routines at government and aided schools.

The timing couldn't be more crucial. With the rising summer temperatures, water bell rings at intervals – 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm – will provide students brief but essential water breaks throughout school hours.

"When it comes to health and wellness, the Tamil Nadu govt introduced the breakfast scheme, reflecting our concern for students' wellbeing. Similarly, a circular will soon be issued to implement the water bell scheme in govt schools," Tamil Nadu school education minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozh was quoted by the Times of India as saying.

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Water Bell System: Parents hail initiative

Parents have responded positively to the Tamil Nadu government initiative. “This small habit can create lifelong health awareness. It’s not just about water — it’s about care from the system,” said Velu, a parent from Tiruchirapalli.

“Hydration is often overlooked, but it’s critical to brain function, especially in young learners. This program is a welcome step toward holistic learning environments,” said a former government teacher in Tamil Nadu.

Chief educational officers have been instructed to oversee the implementation and ensure regular monitoring of water consumption habits.

Following the Kerala model

The initiative follows a similar move by Kerala, which first introduced the water bell system in 2019 and officially reinstated it in February 2024 across all schools. In Kerala, the bell rings twice daily – at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm – providing students with five-minute water breaks. This measure was implemented in response to rising temperatures and health advisories from the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority.

According to India Today, the Kerala government reintroduced the system to ensure students remained hydrated, especially in heat-prone districts such as Kozhikode, Alappuzha, and Kannur. The initiative has since been praised for its positive impact on student wellness and has influenced other states, including Karnataka and Telangana, to adopt similar measures.

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Tamil Nadu Schools: Water bell benefits

The Tamil Nadu directive outlines several benefits of hydration, including improved cognitive function, reduced fatigue, better mood regulation, and prevention of headaches. Students will be instructed to bring water bottles from home, and teachers are expected to explain the importance of hydration during morning assemblies.

A bell distinct from the regular school bell will signal the water break, allowing students two to three minutes to drink water without disrupting class instruction. The water breaks may coincide with existing school intervals to ease implementation.

Headmasters have been asked to ensure water facilities are available within school premises, and to work with local stakeholders to address infrastructure gaps where needed.