The Bihar Education Department has directed teachers and non-teaching staff at schools and other educational institutions across the state to follow a formal dress code during teaching and office hours. The department has also raised concerns over DJ performances and disco-style entertainment programmes held on school premises, saying such activities undermine the dignity of educational institutions.

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Education Minister Mithlesh Tiwari said the instructions require all institutions to ensure that staff members attend work in decent, dignified and formal attire. The directive was communicated through a letter issued on Friday by Vijay Kumar Pandey, Director (Administration) in the Education Department.

According to the letter, earlier instructions on professional conduct and discipline were not being followed consistently. The department cited reports of teachers and non-teaching staff wearing casual clothing, including jeans and T-shirts, during working hours.

Tiwari said teachers serve as role models for students and that their behaviour, conduct and appearance contribute to the values schools are expected to promote. Referring to the Sanskrit saying “Vidya Dadati Vinayam”, meaning education instils humility, he emphasised the importance of discipline within school premises.

The department also objected to DJ performances, disco activities and what it described as low-tier entertainment programmes organised on campus. It clarified that cultural activities are still permitted when they are conducted in a disciplined manner and are consistent with the academic calendar, such as dance and music programmes held on special occasions.

The letter compared the requirement for formal attire in educational institutions with expectations of formal dress when appearing before the Supreme Court of India and the Patna High Court in contempt proceedings.

District education officers have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with the directions. The order highlights the state government’s emphasis on professional conduct, appropriate workplace attire and maintaining a disciplined academic environment.