Chandigarh, Nov 14 (IANS): Surprise checks were conducted in 737 government schools in Punjab Friday to ensure attendance of teachers.

"On the directions of Dr Daljit Singh Cheema, education minister Punjab, special teams of the education department conducted surprise checks in 737 schools of the state with the aim of ensuring punctuality and discipline," a spokesperson of the department said.

"Three circles, namely Jalandhar, Faridkot and Nabha (Patiala), were visited by the special teams at the same time," he said.

He said during the special checking, 35 teachers were found to be absent, while 40 teachers were late. Another 23 teachers were found to be long time absentees.

The spokesman said to maintain discipline and punctuality in government schools, surprise checks would continue in the future also.

"The minister also directed senior officers that 100 percent attendance of the teachers should be ensured," he said.