News
India Inclusion Summit 2020 In A Glimpse: ‘Everybody’s Good At Something’
The online event saw stalwarts like Viswanathan Anand playing chess with visually-impaired national champion Megha Chakraborty and world-renowned speed painter Vilas Nayak creating magic with Anu Jain, an art teacher on a wheelchair. The summit also saw actor Sonu Sood in conversation with India’s 1
Published
4 years agoon

India Inclusion Summit, since 2012, strives to spread awareness on the need to build a more equitable and inclusive society. Their endeavour is to provide equal opportunities for all, regardless of their colour, gender, creed, or ability. Their vision is to ‘Create an Inclusive India where nobody is left behind!’
Their mission is to:
- Create awareness on the need for Inclusion in mainstream society.
- Provide a platform for unsung heroes and celebrating the human spirit.
- Facilitate building deep connections and a thriving community of people who are passionate about making India and the world inclusive.
- Catalyze the journey of young entrepreneurs and artists who are in the disability and inclusion space.
- Partner with corporates to support people & projects that lead to education, employment, and livelihoods for people with disabilities
The summit of 2020 conducted a live session on 21 November 2020 where panellists spoke about inclusion, ability in disability and how ‘Everybody is good at something!’
Vikram Sridhar hosted the session, he is a professional Performance Storyteller and a Theater Practitioner. He started with a story about his childhood and his teacher who included him when he felt excluded in school. He also added how important it is to listen or talk about inclusion right in the formative years in school.
The summit began with an epic play of chess (online) when Megha Chakraborty, a visually-impaired professional chess player from West Bengal, challenging the legendary world chess champion, Viswanathan Anand. During this friendly game, they talked about their mutual interest in chess and the development of that interest since childhood as well as life lessons. Post-match, Anand gave the young player some helpful tips for improving her game.
His suggestions not only were relevant to playing chess but are also eligible in living life especially for those who are differently-abled. “It's mostly thoughtlessness we need to fight against,” said Anand.
Karuna Shullai, Sridevi Jayashankar, Ananya Jain, Sagarika Nair are four school-going girls who talked next about inclusion and how ‘everyone is good at something.’ These girls spoke about their different disabilities and how their schools/teachers and almost everybody around have been supportive of them. These children study in mainstream schools, a little effort on their school’s part as well as a supportive staff has helped them immensely to grow in life. This is a very big example of the summit’s main aim, that is to create a world where all children are given equal opportunities. One of the panellists, Sridevi, was also interpreting in sign language during the group conversation, so those viewers with hearing-disability could understand the context. Though she does not have a hearing/speaking-disability herself, her parents were born deaf, and so, she learnt the sign language for them. Her considerate and compassionate nature is what makes a huge difference in the lives of people around her and teach them about inclusion.
Later in the online event, Vikram Sridhar introduced a song on friendship by Vasu Dixit which was dedicated by Ashwin Karthik, who is the first successful engineer from India with Cerebral Palsy. He wrote the song for his best friend Bharat whom he met in college. Bharat had a huge hand in shaping Ashwin’s life and career while putting his own needs and career on hold. This shows how a bond so strong can make all the difference, showing how just one person can make it better for others if only they include those with different abilities.
In the next segment, the Indian-origin motivational speaker, Sparsh Shah, began by saying, “Disabled, for some of us, this word should not exist because it is too condemning to those who have been given this label.” A resident of New Jersey, this rapper, singer and songwriter who has a rare condition called Osteogenesis imperfecta, talked about how persons with disabilities can break barriers and live a life without limits. Shah talked about how society has seen the disabled people as a ‘problem’ that needs to be fixed, to which his answer for them was, “We are not entitled, we have simply been robbed of some basic human rights.”
Shah also talked about reclaiming the label ‘disabled’ by embracing it and not feeling ashamed or any less by it. He talked about world-renowned celebrities, scientists, politicians and more who had some or the other kind of disability yet they were the best in their field and are still globally-celebrated. He concluded his session with a new version of ‘Aasman Ke Paar,’ the theme song of IIS which he rapped & sang melodiously for the viewers. Shah is an inspiration for people who wish to do something constructive and extraordinary in their lives but are psychologically restricted by their disabilities.
“We are disabled, we are proud of that label, we always will be,” explained Shah.
Next happened a riveting conversation where Sonu Sood, the famous Bollywood actor/producer and humanitarian, talked to Pranav Bakshi, India’s first autistic male model. They discussed fitness, inclusion in the glamour world, and much more. Sonu spoke about how fitness is a very important aspect of his life, he also suggested to Pranav, as well as others, that they should take care of their physical fitness in order to keep the emotional health sound.
Sonu, being an avid fitness lover, gave tips on how one can easily lead a healthy lifestyle. His humanitarian work during COVID-19 lockdown has not been a secret, the nation applauds him for the immense empathy he showed, and so, consequently, Pranav, too, asked questions regarding the same. In return, Sonu told Pranav how he is an inspiration to many. “Thanks to IIS for championing this cause and spreading the message of inclusion,” remarked Sood.
Anu Jain, a Fine Arts Gold medalist with no limbs, was next in conversation with Vilas Nayak, Asia’s fastest Speed Painter. They talked about Inclusion in the creative world. Anu is also a teacher of arts for children and conducts workshops in fine arts for adults. While talking about each other’s journey, life and dreams, Anu said, “I believe everyone is a student for life.” Vilas and Anu both have different journeys, but the path leads to the same destination – Inclusivity in the creative world.
VR Ferose, Vice President of SAP, the man behind it all and the founder of India Inclusion Summit, made his appearance in the end to share an encouraging message with the thousands of viewers. “It gives me great joy to see so many schools, teachers, parents and students participating in this virtual meet today.”
Ferose talked about how he enjoyed seeing these young minds interact with their role models, he said, “True change, not just in India but around the world, can only be driven by passionate youth.” It was wisely said by him that like a rainbow, which is made of seven different individual colours, the idea of inclusion, too, shall manifest when the youth with different abilities come together, embracing each other’s differences.
The two-hour-long event concluded with a request to take the pledge of inclusion! We have, and you?
Send your creativity about the word “Inclusion” at [email protected].
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Education
CBSE Introduces Mandatory Bridge Course for Classes 6 to 12 in Chhattisgarh Under NEP 2020
Published
14 hours agoon
April 21, 2025
In line with the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, a significant curriculum reform has been rolled out in Chhattisgarh, where CBSE and NCERT have introduced a mandatory bridge course for students from Classes 6 to 12, starting from the academic session 2025–26.
This strategic change aims to strengthen conceptual understanding, sharpen skills, and enhance subject connectivity for students transitioning between academic years. The bridge course is designed as a foundational segment to reinforce key learnings from the previous class, enabling smoother adaptation to new academic content—especially in subjects like Mathematics, Science, Social Science, and Languages.
What is a Bridge Course?
A bridge course is essentially a learning support module that helps students revise and reinforce previous class concepts before delving into the new syllabus. By bridging the learning gap, it prepares students mentally and academically for the demands of their new grade. The initiative is particularly aimed at strengthening continuity in learning and reducing academic stress.
Teacher Training and Implementation
To ensure effective integration, teachers in CBSE-affiliated schools across Chhattisgarh are undergoing dedicated training in both online and offline formats. The training focuses on how to incorporate the bridge course within the regular curriculum and adapt pedagogy to meet individual learner needs.
Changes in NCERT Textbooks
Alongside the bridge course implementation, NCERT has revised textbooks for Classes 3 and 6. The new editions lay emphasis on activity-based learning, life skills development, and project work. In particular, the Class 6 Science and Social Science books feature innovative activities and experiential modules aimed at enhancing student engagement and practical understanding.
With this move, CBSE and NCERT aim to create a more inclusive and progressive academic structure, staying true to NEP 2020’s vision of competency-based learning and reduced content load. As this model takes shape in Chhattisgarh, it could serve as a blueprint for nationwide adoption in the coming years.
Education
CBSE Mandates 50-Hour Annual Training for Teachers, Declares STEM as 2025 Theme
Published
4 days agoon
April 18, 2025
In a significant move towards enhancing teacher capacity in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued fresh guidelines mandating 50 hours of annual training for all educators in its affiliated schools. The 2025 annual training theme has been declared as STEM Education, reflecting India’s push towards innovation-driven learning.
According to CBSE notifications TRG-2/2025 and TRG-3/2025, 25 hours of training must be delivered by CBSE or a recognised government training body, while the remaining 25 hours can be conducted in-house or at the school complex level. This framework has been structured in line with the National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST) and aims to ensure continuous professional development and improved student learning outcomes.
The CPD (Continuous Professional Development) hours are categorised as follows:
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Core Values and Ethics – 12 hours
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Knowledge and Practice – 24 hours
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Professional Growth and Development – 14 hours
CBSE has also clarified that academic responsibilities such as assessment duties for board exams, practical examiner roles, content creation, curriculum review, and participation in CBSE-led conferences will be recognised as valid CPD hours.
The board has instructed schools to organise District Level Deliberations (DLDs) focused on STEM pedagogy. These sessions are designed to encourage peer discussions, sharing of best practices, and localisation of innovative teaching strategies.
Heads of institutions have been called upon to act as leaders of change, ensuring the effective implementation of this framework within their schools and nurturing a culture of continuous learning.
With this move, CBSE reaffirms its commitment to building a future-ready teaching workforce, equipped to deliver education that is both engaging and globally relevant.
Education
China Embarks on Ambitious AI-Driven Education Reform to Build a ‘Strong Education Nation’ by 2035
Published
4 days agoon
April 17, 2025
China has unveiled a comprehensive education reform strategy aiming to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) across all levels of its education system. This initiative is a cornerstone of the nation’s broader “Strong Education Nation” plan, targeting significant advancements in educational quality and innovation by 2035.
The Ministry of Education announced plans to embed AI applications into teaching methodologies, textbooks, and curricula spanning primary, secondary, and higher education. This move is designed to cultivate essential skills such as independent thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration among students and educators. By fostering these competencies, China aims to enhance the core competitiveness of its innovative talent pool (Reuters).
This AI integration aligns with China’s broader educational blueprint, jointly issued by the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council. The plan outlines a two-phased objective: establishing a high-quality educational system by 2027 and achieving global leadership in education by 2035. Key goals include expanding free education, increasing enrollment in high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate programs, and addressing regional disparities in educational access.
To support this vision, Chinese universities are expanding AI-related courses and enrollment. Institutions like Peking University and Shanghai Jiao Tong University have announced plans to increase undergraduate spots in fields such as information science, engineering, and AI. This expansion is closely linked to the national strategy of developing a robust digital-era talent pool (Reuters Education Expansion).
Moreover, the Ministry of Education has mandated that primary and secondary schools intensify their science education to drive scientific and technological innovation. Schools are required to implement comprehensive science curricula, enhance teaching capabilities, and integrate science education resources effectively.
China’s commitment to integrating AI into education reflects its broader ambition to become a global leader in technological innovation and education. By embedding AI into the fabric of its educational system, China aims to prepare its citizens for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.
Education
Delhi Government Cracks Down on Dummy Schooling; Over 600 Schools Inspected, 10 Issued Notices
Published
5 days agoon
April 17, 2025
In a sweeping inspection drive aimed at curbing malpractice in private educational institutions, the Delhi Government has inspected over 600 schools across the national capital, issuing show-cause notices to more than 10 schools and initiating the process of derecognition in serious cases. The crackdown follows mounting complaints from parents about arbitrary fee hikes, dummy admissions, and neglect of Economically Weaker Section (EWS) students.
The Directorate of Education (DoE) formed district-level committees—headed by Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) and comprising deputy directors of education, accounts officers, and principals of government schools—to investigate complaints on a priority basis. These inspections are being closely monitored, with more schools likely to be reviewed in the coming days.
The inspection drive also revealed that 20 schools were allegedly engaging in dummy admissions—a practice where students are enrolled only on paper while attending private coaching institutes instead of regular classes. In such cases, the government has invoked provisions under the Delhi School Education Act and Rules (DSEAR), 1973, and has begun derecognition procedures.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, responding to concerns raised during a Jan Samvaad public hearing, stated, “It is completely unacceptable for any school to mentally harass parents or students, threaten expulsion, or raise fees without due process.” She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and ensuring access to quality education for every child.
The DoE confirmed that some schools have also failed to submit mandatory financial disclosures and fee statements as per Section 17(3) and Section 180(3) of DSEAR, which will invite legal action. Schools violating EWS guidelines—such as failing to provide free textbooks, uniforms, and writing materials under Rule 8 of the Delhi RTE Rules—are also under scrutiny.
The crackdown also comes after Queen Mary School in Model Town was accused of fee-related misconduct and expulsion threats. The Chief Minister had instructed the education department to take immediate action against such institutions, promising a “zero-tolerance” approach.
Delhi’s education authorities have reiterated that private schools must adhere strictly to rules governing fee regulation, student welfare, and inclusive access. Institutions found guilty of flouting these norms will face stringent penalties, including derecognition and possible takeover of management.
Education
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Warns Private Schools Against Arbitrary Fee Hikes and Student Harassment
Published
5 days agoon
April 16, 2025
Amid growing parental concerns about rising school fees and student expulsions, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has issued a stern warning to private schools across the capital. Emphasising a “zero tolerance” approach, the CM stated that any institution found violating rules—whether by imposing arbitrary fee hikes or harassing students and parents—will face strict action.
Addressing media following a public dialogue programme on Tuesday, Gupta shared that her office had received multiple complaints from concerned parents alleging wrongful fee practices and threats of expulsion. One such case involved Queen Mary School in Model Town, where families accused the school of unjust fee collection and punitive action against students.
“No school has the authority to harass parents or children, threaten expulsion, or hike fees arbitrarily,” said Gupta in a statement to ANI. “There are rules and laws in place. Compliance is not optional—it’s mandatory.”
The Chief Minister confirmed that notices have already been issued to several schools named in formal complaints. She further stated that relevant officials have been directed to conduct immediate investigations and take necessary legal and disciplinary action.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Gupta reiterated the Delhi Government’s stand on education, writing,
“The Delhi Government is fully committed to transparency, equal opportunity, and the protection of children’s rights in education. A zero-tolerance policy has been adopted towards any kind of injustice, exploitation, or irregularity—no laxity will be tolerated in this. Our resolve is clear—every child should have access to justice, respect, and quality education.”
VIDEO | Delhi CM Rekha Gupta (@gupta_rekha) on the issue of fee hike by some private schools, says, “Parents have been meeting me with their grievances… that is for sure… no school has any right to harass parents and children. They have no right to threaten children and hike… pic.twitter.com/QqGTYHrf7r
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 15, 2025
The Chief Minister’s response signals a growing shift toward regulatory vigilance in private education, especially around affordability and student welfare. As rising school fees become a point of national concern, particularly after a recent survey reported a 50–80% hike across schools in three years, Delhi’s move to crack down on irregularities could serve as a template for other states to follow.
Education
MAHAJYOTI’s Book Distribution Scheme to Empower 7,000 OBC Students Preparing for JEE/NEET & MHT-CET
Published
6 days agoon
April 16, 2025
15 April 2025: In a step to move towards equitable education, the Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Research & Training Institute (MAHAJYOTI), an autonomous body under the Government of Maharashtra, is set to distribute free study materials to over 7,000 students from Other Backward Classes (OBC) under its Pustak Sanch Watap Yojana. The initiative aims to aid students in preparing for competitive exams such as JEE, NEET, and MHT-CET.
Beneficiaries—spread across all 36 districts of Maharashtra—have registered under MAHAJYOTI’s training programmes and will receive comprehensive preparation books for their respective entrance examinations. The Jalgaon region saw the highest number of registrations, followed by Amravati, Dhule, Buldhana, and Ahmednagar.
This large-scale effort underscores MAHAJYOTI’s ongoing mission to empower students from OBC, Deprived Castes-Nomadic Tribes, and Special Backward Classes by ensuring they are not left behind in the pursuit of higher education due to economic constraints.
Voices from the Government and Ground
Honourable Minister Atul Save, from the Other Backward and Bahujan Welfare Department, commended the scale of the scheme, stating,
“It is inspiring to witness the tremendous response from students. Our commitment to providing such opportunities for OBC students remains steadfast. We strongly encourage them to leverage these important government initiatives designed for their progress.”
Echoing his sentiments, Shri Prashant Wawge, Managing Director of MAHAJYOTI, remarked,
“This overwhelming response reinforces our mission. We urge every eligible OBC student to take full advantage of this scheme. We wish these bright young minds success in their entrance examinations.”
Changing Lives One Book at a Time
Families of beneficiaries have also expressed heartfelt gratitude. Kiran Nimje, mother of Aaryan from Nagpur, shared,
“Purchasing expensive JEE books was beyond our means. This scheme has been a lifeline. My son, who scored 94% in SSC, can now prepare for engineering with confidence.”
Similarly, Sheetal Nagargoje from Amravati, whose son Aditya also benefited, added,
“We are incredibly thankful. This support came to us at the right time and will help my son, who scored 80% in SSC, get closer to his dream.”
As education costs continue to rise, especially in the realm of competitive exam preparation, government-supported initiatives like MAHAJYOTI’s book distribution scheme play a pivotal role in bridging the opportunity gap for students from marginalised communities. With a robust outreach and strong public response, this programme is a timely reminder that access to quality education must remain a priority.
Education
Harvard Stands Its Ground: Harvard Faces ₹18,400 Crore Funding Freeze After Rejecting Trump Administration’s Demands
Published
7 days agoon
April 15, 2025
In response to Harvard’s refusal to implement federal directives on campus reforms, the Trump administration has escalated the standoff by freezing $2.2 billion (approximately ₹18,400 crore) in multi-year federal grants and placing an additional $60 million (₹500 crore) in government contracts on hold. This latest move by the Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism underscores the growing pressure on educational institutions to align with the administration’s ideological agenda—an act Harvard deems incompatible with its constitutional rights and academic independence.
At the heart of the issue lies the Trump administration’s crackdown on elite American universities, particularly those perceived to support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives or tolerate anti-establishment student protests. The administration’s sweeping ultimatum to Harvard included banning face masks on campus, altering hiring and admission practices to favour so-called “merit-based” criteria, and conducting an audit of students and faculty based on their ideological leanings.
“No Government Should Dictate What Universities Teach”
In a strongly-worded letter to the Harvard community, President Alan Garber reaffirmed the university’s constitutional rights, asserting that “no government—regardless of which party is in power—should dictate what private universities can teach, whom they can admit and hire, and which areas of study and inquiry they can pursue.”
He called the demands unconstitutional and a breach of the First Amendment, stating they “exceed the statutory limits of the government’s authority under Title VI.” Harvard, he emphasised, would not “surrender its independence or relinquish its constitutional rights.”
This decision has not been made lightly. With $9 billion (₹75,060 crore) in federal support hanging in the balance—including student financial aid and research grants—the refusal signals the university’s unwavering commitment to preserving academic integrity, even in the face of substantial financial risk.
What’s At Stake for Students and Global Academia?
Harvard’s resistance is more than a domestic headline—it’s a global signal. With Indian students being among the top international communities at Harvard and other elite US institutions, the outcome of this standoff could have ripple effects far beyond American borders.
According to The Hindu, the Trump administration has already frozen approximately $2.3 billion (₹19,182 crore) in funding to institutions like Princeton, Cornell, Columbia, and the University of Pennsylvania. The latter’s funding was slashed over allowing a transgender athlete to compete—a move many have labelled discriminatory and ideologically driven.
For students—especially those pursuing higher education abroad—this moment marks a sobering reminder that education can no longer be viewed as an apolitical space. If universities are pressured to reshape their curriculums, hiring practices, or student bodies based on political whims, the very essence of critical thinking, academic exploration, and diversity is endangered.
The administration’s justification for defunding Harvard cites that many DEI initiatives are “divisive” or “discriminatory”—a claim widely rejected by educators, human rights groups, and civil society organisations across the globe.
The truth is: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are not trends or PR jargon—they are the moral and pedagogical backbone of an equitable education system. To see these stripped down as ideological threats marks a dangerous precedent not just for the U.S., but for any democracy flirting with majoritarian education policies.
The Bigger Picture
By refusing to accept the U.S. government’s conditions, Harvard has taken a stance to defend its institutional autonomy. While this may lead to financial strain, the university has signalled that it will not compromise on its core governance principles.
As Indian universities navigate reforms under the National Education Policy (NEP), this development also serves as a timely reminder of the importance of safeguarding academic spaces from excessive external influence. Educational institutions function best when given the space to operate independently and uphold their academic mandates without undue interference.
Decisions about what constitutes academic freedom or institutional policy should ideally be made within the education system—not defined by political narratives.
Rather than setting a precedent for others to replicate, this moment should prompt global institutions and governments to reflect carefully on the balance between public accountability and institutional independence.
Education
Is Your School Following These Mandatory CBSE Committees?
Published
1 week agoon
April 14, 2025
In today’s fast-evolving education landscape, a school is no longer just about lessons and exams—it is about ensuring student safety, holistic development, mental well-being, career clarity, and inclusive practices. Recognising this, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has mandated the formation of specific committees in all affiliated schools to ensure a structured, student-centric, and responsive ecosystem. But the question is—is your school actually following these norms?
Why Are These Committees Crucial?
These committees aren’t just bureaucratic formalities—they are foundational for building schools that are safe, progressive, and future-ready. In an era where bullying, cyber threats, mental health issues, learning differences, and safety concerns are on the rise, these mechanisms act as the backbone of accountability and action. They allow stakeholders—students, parents, teachers, and management—to work together for an environment where every child can thrive.
Let’s look at the mandatory CBSE committees that every school must have:
1. School Management Committee (SMC)
This is the apex decision-making body comprising management, educators, parents, and external experts. It ensures that school policies align with CBSE affiliation by-laws.
2. Sexual Harassment Committee/Internal Complaints Committee
Formed as per the POSH Act, this committee safeguards staff and students from workplace harassment and ensures timely redressal.
3. Child Protection Committee
It includes representatives from all key stakeholders and ensures children are protected from abuse and neglect within the school environment.
4. School Discipline Committee
This committee deals with discipline-related issues and works towards fostering a respectful school culture.
5. Grievance Redressal Committee
Handles complaints from students, staff, or parents, ensuring a transparent and fair resolution mechanism.
6. Anti-Bullying Committee
Bullying in any form is non-negotiable. This committee ensures strict implementation of CBSE’s anti-bullying policies.
7. Health & Wellness Committee
Includes physical education teachers and health professionals, focusing on physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
8. Examination Committee
Manages all assessment protocols and ensures fair, secure conduct of exams.
9. Inclusive Education/Special Needs Committee
Supports children with disabilities and learning challenges by providing resources, accommodations, and inclusive policies.
10. Career Guidance & Counseling Committee
Empowers students with career counselling, aptitude testing, and psychological support.
11. Academic Committee
Looks after curriculum implementation, quality of teaching, and subject integration.
12. House System Committee
Encourages inter-house competitions and leadership among students through structured activities.
13. Cultural & Co-curricular Activities Committee
Ensures students get opportunities beyond the classroom—through arts, debate, sports, etc.
14. IT & Innovation Committee
Encourages integration of digital learning, coding, innovation, and tech-based pedagogies.
15. Disaster Management Committee
Prepares schools for emergencies like fire, earthquakes, or health outbreaks.
16. Parent-Teacher Association (PTA)
While not mandatory, many schools voluntarily include this for seamless parent-teacher collaboration.
Why Every Educator and Parent Should Care
These committees represent a school’s commitment to child-centred learning. Schools that implement them honestly often see lower dropout rates, improved mental health indicators, stronger student voices, and higher parental trust.
With NEP 2020 pushing for holistic education, these structures ensure that the vision turns into action. It’s not just about compliance—it’s about creating a school that every child looks forward to attending.
What Else Can Be Added?
While CBSE has outlined a solid framework, here are 3 additional committees that could be introduced:
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Digital Safety & Cyber Etiquette Committee – With rising online exposure, schools must ensure students are protected digitally.
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Student Voice & Leadership Committee – Giving students formal roles to co-create school culture.
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Sustainability & Environment Committee – For green practices, waste segregation, water conservation, and LiFE-aligned actions.
In 2025, education isn’t just about marks—it’s about mindset, safety, values, and vision. As parents, educators, or students, it’s our right (and duty) to ask: Does our school have these committees? Because compliance is the first step to care.
Education
Delhi Schools Act Swiftly to Protect Students as IMD Issues Heatwave Alert
Published
2 weeks agoon
April 11, 2025
As Delhi records its first major heatwave of the season with temperatures soaring beyond 40°C, schools across the capital are ramping up efforts to safeguard student health. Responding to a yellow alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), several schools have swiftly implemented precautionary measures to shield children from heat-related illnesses.
To minimise sun exposure, outdoor activities have been suspended after 10 a.m. in many institutions. Schools are also taking proactive steps to ensure hydration, offering traditional cooling beverages such as aam panna, buttermilk, lemonade, and wood apple sherbet within their premises. At ITL International School in Dwarka, Principal Sudha Acharya highlighted how students have been encouraged to carry infused water with cucumber and watermelon, with teachers even integrating cooling drink preparation into their practical lessons.
Tagore International School in East of Kailash has issued advisories to students and parents, recommending protective accessories like caps and umbrellas, and stressing the importance of not sending children to school on an empty stomach—a known risk factor for heatstroke. The school has moved all physical activities indoors to ensure student safety.
Sovereign School in Rohini has echoed similar caution. Chairperson RN Jindal confirmed that outdoor games are now limited to early mornings, while the infirmary is stocked with ORS, glucose, and essential medicines. Regular health checkups are being conducted for students with recurrent illnesses, and the institution is strictly following the guidelines issued by the Directorate of Education (DoE).
These guidelines, issued on March 27, directed schools to avoid afternoon assemblies, ensure proper hydration and ventilation, and promote awareness on protective measures such as wearing light cotton clothing and covering the head with a cloth, hat, or umbrella. Schools were also instructed to report any signs of heat exhaustion or illness to nearby health facilities immediately.
The IMD’s classification of a heatwave includes maximum temperatures of 40°C or more in the plains or 4.5 to 6.4 degrees above normal. With the rising mercury and health risks for children, Delhi schools are setting an important example in prioritising student well-being amid extreme weather conditions.
Source- PTI | India TV News
Education
Punjab Launches ₹2,000 Crore ‘Sikhiya Kranti’ Campaign to Upgrade Government Schools
Published
2 weeks agoon
April 8, 2025
The Punjab government has launched a ₹2,000 crore campaign titled ‘Sikhiya Kranti’, aimed at upgrading infrastructure and basic amenities across nearly 12,000 government schools in the state. The 54-day campaign was officially launched on Monday by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, alongside former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, at the School of Eminence in Nawanshahr.
As part of the initiative, government schools will be equipped with modern learning tools, clean drinking water, high-speed wireless internet, separate toilets for boys and girls, classroom furniture such as desks and chairs, and boundary walls to ensure safety and improved learning environments.
The campaign also includes a school mentorship programme, under which IAS and IPS officers will adopt government schools in rural areas. These officers will mentor students and guide schools in improving learning outcomes. The pilot phase of this initiative will cover 80 Schools of Eminence, with each officer assigned a school for a period of five years, regardless of their place of posting.
The state government has also been sending teachers for training at national and international institutions to upgrade their skills. This upskilling, according to officials, has contributed to a noticeable increase in student enrolment in government schools.
Manish Sisodia, speaking at the event, stated that the Punjab government is working to strengthen the education system by transforming schools and enabling students to pursue their aspirations. He noted that more than 12,000 schools in Punjab have already undergone transformation in the past three years.
Newsletter

Education Alone Won’t Feed Minds: Why Teachers Must Be Trained in Nutrition Too

CBSE Introduces Mandatory Bridge Course for Classes 6 to 12 in Chhattisgarh Under NEP 2020

CBSE Mandates 50-Hour Annual Training for Teachers, Declares STEM as 2025 Theme

China Embarks on Ambitious AI-Driven Education Reform to Build a ‘Strong Education Nation’ by 2035

Delhi Government Cracks Down on Dummy Schooling; Over 600 Schools Inspected, 10 Issued Notices

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Warns Private Schools Against Arbitrary Fee Hikes and Student Harassment

MAHAJYOTI’s Book Distribution Scheme to Empower 7,000 OBC Students Preparing for JEE/NEET & MHT-CET

Harvard Stands Its Ground: Harvard Faces ₹18,400 Crore Funding Freeze After Rejecting Trump Administration’s Demands

Is Your School Following These Mandatory CBSE Committees?

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