Jaipur, 9 March 2025: As a crucial step to address the challenges faced by students and curb rising suicides in coaching hubs, the Rajasthan Cabinet has approved the Rajasthan Coaching Centre Control and Regulation Bill 2025. The bill aims to regulate coaching institutes across the state, ensuring structured policies to safeguard student welfare and mental health. Additionally, the cabinet has given the nod to the Rajasthan Skill Policy 2025, focusing on upskilling youth, reskilling workers, and fostering entrepreneurship to enhance employment opportunities.

Tackling Student Suicides in Kota

The decision comes at a time when Rajasthan, particularly Kota—the country’s coaching capital—has witnessed an alarming surge in student suicides. Last year alone, 17 students died by suicide in the city, while in 2023, the number was 23. The most recent case involved 18-year-old NEET aspirant, Ankush Meena, who was found dead in his PG accommodation. His death, reportedly the seventh case in Kota this year, has reignited concerns about the intense pressure faced by students preparing for competitive exams.

Addressing the issue, parliamentary minister Jogaram Patel said, “Students sometimes commit suicide due to stress, which is unfortunate. We want them to study, compete, and succeed, but not at the cost of their mental health.” He added that the proposed bill will introduce strict regulations for coaching institutes, covering those with more than 50 students. Penalties and cancellation of registration will be enforced for institutions violating the new rules.

Rajasthan Skill Policy 2025: Addressing Employment Challenges

Alongside regulating coaching centres, the Rajasthan government has also introduced the Rajasthan Skill Policy 2025, a comprehensive strategy to bridge the skill gap among youth and create employment opportunities.

“There are around 20 lakh youth in Rajasthan who are employable but lack the right skills,” Patel said. “The government has committed to creating four lakh jobs in five years, and through the right skill programmes, we want young people to contribute to the state’s development.”

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This initiative aims to equip students with industry-relevant skills, promote entrepreneurship, and ensure that graduates are job-ready, reducing dependency on competitive exams as the sole career pathway.

Urgent Need for Change in Student Welfare Policies

The rise in student suicides in Kota and across India highlights the urgent need for systemic reforms in the education sector. While coaching centres play a vital role in helping students prepare for competitive exams, the immense academic pressure, isolation, and lack of emotional support are pushing many to breaking point.

The new regulation in Rajasthan is a step towards accountability—ensuring that coaching institutes prioritise student well-being alongside academic success. However, mental health awareness, counselling services, and alternative career pathways must also be actively promoted to change the toxic culture of extreme academic pressure.

With India striving for educational excellence, the nation must not overlook the mental and emotional well-being of its students. The Rajasthan Coaching Centre Control and Regulation Bill is a welcome move, but its implementation and enforcement will determine its true impact in preventing further tragedies.

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The debate around smartphones in schools has gained fresh momentum following a Delhi High Court ruling that a complete ban on smartphones for students is “undesirable and unworkable”. This decision aligns with the evolving global discourse on whether restricting mobile phones in schools improves learning outcomes or stifles digital literacy. While concerns around screen addiction, cyberbullying, and distractions in classrooms remain valid, an outright ban may deny students access to essential learning tools, safety, and connectivity.

With 79 education systems worldwide banning smartphone use in schools by the end of 2024 (UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report, 2025), India now faces the challenge of formulating balanced policies that regulate smartphone use while ensuring digital inclusivity and responsible online behaviour.

Delhi HC: Ban is “Undesirable and Unworkable”

The Delhi High Court, in its February 28 ruling, acknowledged both the harmful and beneficial aspects of smartphone usage in schools. While the indiscriminate use of phones can impact student focus, expose them to cyber risks, and encourage excessive social media engagement, the court recognised that smartphones serve crucial purposes, such as:

• Ensuring safety and coordination between parents and children
• Providing access to educational resources, research tools, and digital learning platforms
• Enhancing student engagement through AI-based and gamified learning apps

Instead of a blanket ban, the court proposed regulated use, allowing schools to create structured policies for monitoring smartphone usage while keeping students informed about digital well-being, online etiquette, and responsible internet use.

The Court’s Guidelines on Smartphone Use in Schools:

• Schools must educate students on responsible online behaviour and ethical smartphone use
• Students should be counselled on the risks of excessive screen time, social media anxiety, and cyberbullying
• Where possible, students may deposit smartphones upon entering school and retrieve them at home time
• Classroom use must be prohibited, and camera/recording functions should be disabled in common areas and school vehicles
• The policy should be developed with input from educators, parents, and digital safety experts

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and Delhi’s Directorate of Education have been directed to formulate revised guidelines based on the ruling.

The Global Perspective: Countries Banning Smartphones in Schools

According to the UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report (2025), a growing number of education systems worldwide are implementing strict regulations on smartphone usage in schools. As of 2024, 79 education systems (40%) had introduced bans in some form.

• China: Schools in Zhengzhou require written parental consent to use smartphones for academic purposes.
• France: A “digital break” policy was introduced in lower secondary schools to complement existing phone bans.
• Australia & Spain: Some regions have imposed strict bans, while others allow individual schools to draft their own regulations.
• United States: 20 out of 50 states have enacted restrictions, with some allowing exceptions for students requiring learning accommodations.

Despite these regulations, UNESCO’s report warns against over-restricting smartphone use, arguing that technology should only be banned if it disrupts learning and does not support educational outcomes.

The Learning vs. Distraction Debate

The 2023 GEM Report cited research indicating that smartphone bans in countries like Belgium, Spain, and the UK improved learning outcomes, especially for struggling students. However, it also raised concerns about equity, stating that students must learn to navigate technology rather than be shielded from it entirely.

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India has yet to implement a nationwide smartphone policy for schools, but many institutions have internal restrictions on mobile usage. While the Delhi High Court ruling offers guidance, a broader national discussion is required to strike the right balance between technological innovation and student well-being.

Who Stands to Lose if Smartphones Are Banned?

While privileged students may have alternative access to digital resources at home, a complete ban on smartphones could disproportionately impact lower-income students who depend on mobile devices for online learning, research, and access to educational apps and AI-based tutoring tools. These devices also serve as gateways to government-led digital learning initiatives like DIKSHA and PM eVidya, as well as crucial resources for career counselling, scholarships, and college applications. Eliminating smartphone access in schools could further widen the digital divide, hindering India’s goal of building a digitally literate workforce at a time when technology-driven skills are becoming essential in global job markets.

Why Smartphones Are Essential in Education?

1. Safety and Connectivity

In an unpredictable world, smartphones provide a crucial safety net for students and parents. Real-time communication ensures students can report emergencies, navigate transport routes, and stay connected with family.

2. Digital Learning and AI-Based Education

With the rise of AI-driven education, smartphones serve as gateways to:

• AI-powered tutoring platforms that personalise learning experiences
• Online courses, coding platforms, and gamified STEM learning
• Language-learning apps and digital libraries

3. Encouraging Self-Directed Learning

Apps like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning allow students to acquire real-world skills beyond traditional textbooks, preparing them for 21st-century careers.

4. Bridging the Digital Divide

For students from rural and underserved areas, smartphones may be their only means of accessing quality educational resources, bridging the gap between privileged urban learners and those in resource-limited settings.

5. Future-Ready Skills

The Delhi High Court’s emphasis on digital literacy is crucial—students must be taught not just how to use technology, but how to use it responsibly. Schools should integrate:

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• Workshops on cyber safety and responsible social media use
• AI and coding bootcamps to prepare students for future careers
• Digital etiquette lessons to ensure ethical online behaviour

Aim for Balanced Smartphone Policies

As India moves towards Viksit Bharat 2047, its policies on technology in education will shape how well students adapt to the future. Instead of outright bans, schools must:

✅ Develop structured smartphone use policies in consultation with educators, parents, and digital experts.
✅ Educate students on ethical digital use, cyber safety, and screen-time management.
✅ Allow controlled use of smartphones for educational purposes while restricting recreational distractions.

Hence, India must find a middle ground—A well-balanced policy will ensure that students benefit from digital learning tools while minimising the risks of excessive screen time and online distractions.

New Delhi, 3rd March 2025: Hello Kids, one of India’s largest preschool chains, has reached a significant milestone by expanding to 1,000 centres across India and Bangladesh. With an ambitious roadmap ahead, the brand now targets 2,000 centres within the next three years, aiming to provide early childhood education to over 100,000 students by 2028.

Predominantly established in Bangalore and Hyderabad, Hello Kids is now gearing up to expand its presence across northern and western India, further strengthening its position in the preschool segment.

Founded in 2005 by Pritam Kumar Agrawal, Hello Kids began as a single preschool in Bangalore. Over the years, the brand has grown into a widespread network, largely credited to its no-royalty franchise model. The chain’s affordable and accessible approach to early learning has made it a preferred choice for parents and educators alike.

Mr. Agrawal, who hails from a small village, faced numerous challenges while establishing Hello Kids. From managing daily operations to personally driving school vans, he worked hands-on to understand the intricacies of running a credible preschool. His efforts gained further momentum when his wife, Sunita Jain, a software engineer, joined him in the venture. Together, they leveraged franchising to scale the business, making Hello Kids India’s first no-royalty model preschool chain.

“From humble beginnings to becoming a household name in early childhood education, Hello Kids has always focused on making preschools affordable while providing the best learning environment for young minds. Our goal is to reach 2,000 centres by 2028 while staying committed to excellence in early learning,” said Pritam Kumar Agrawal, Founder & Director of Hello Kids.

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Over the years, Hello Kids has garnered multiple accolades for its contribution to early childhood education. The brand was named India’s Most Respected Childhood Education Brand 2022-23 by Education World and was also awarded Leading Preschool Chain at the Elets World Education Summit 2022.

“At Hello Kids, we believe in nurturing young minds with innovative learning experiences. Our goal has always been to make high-quality preschool education accessible to every child. As we expand further, we remain committed to providing a safe, engaging, and stimulating environment for early learners, ensuring they build a strong foundation for the future,” added Sunita Jain, Director & CEO of Hello Kids.

A major factor behind Hello Kids’ rapid expansion has been its comprehensive training and support system for franchise partners. The company provides training in curriculum development, teaching methodologies, marketing strategies, social media engagement, parent counseling, and admission handling.

Academic training sessions focus on phonics, Montessori techniques, STEM education, and social behaviour development—all crucial elements for early childhood development.

The Hello Kids curriculum aligns with India’s New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, integrating digital learning tools such as Virtual Reality kits, digital slates, and talking pens to enhance student engagement. The brand also ensures child safety with CCTV-monitored classrooms, a hygienic environment, and experienced educators.

With a strong foundation in early learning, a commitment to innovation, and an ambitious expansion plan, Hello Kids is poised to reshape the preschool landscape in India in the coming years.

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In a significant move to regulate the burgeoning number of pre-primary schools across Maharashtra, the state government has announced that, starting from the academic year 2025-26, all such institutions will be required to register with the School Education Department. This initiative aims to curb arbitrary fee structures and ensure standardized education quality for young learners.

Minister of State for Education, Dr. Pankaj Bhoyar, emphasized the necessity of this regulation, stating that while establishing a pre-primary school currently doesn’t mandate prior permission from the government or the education department, it’s imperative for local education officers to maintain records of these institutions. “To achieve this, the registration of schools will be made mandatory,” Dr. Bhoyar remarked. He further disclosed that efforts are underway to draft legislation governing the fees these schools can levy. Once enacted, this law will enforce compulsory registration of pre-primary schools with the School Education Department, with implementation slated for the 2025-26 academic session.

The state’s proactive approach reflects its commitment to bringing positive transformations in the education sector through collaborative efforts. Dr. Bhoyar encouraged stakeholders to share insights or suggestions regarding the execution of central or state educational initiatives, assuring that valuable recommendations would be duly considered. “The state government is striving to bring positive changes in the education system through collective efforts,” he affirmed.

This development is poised to bring about a more transparent and equitable educational landscape for Maharashtra’s youngest scholars.

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Gwalior, India – The Scindia School in association with White Canvas India hosted an inspiring Young CEO Product Launch Ceremony on February 20, 2025. The event marked a significant milestone in student-led entrepreneurship, showcasing innovative startups developed by young minds of the school.

The TSS WCI Young CEO Program is a revolutionary initiative designed to nurture entrepreneurial thinking among students, equipping them with right mindset, real-world business skills through hands-on learning. The event brought together founders, industry leaders, and students to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of tomorrow’s business leaders.

Three teams of dynamic young entrepreneurs introduced their startups, each addressing crucial market needs with a strong emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and impact:

1️. Eco BAM – Sustainable Bamboo Products

• A venture dedicated to replacing plastic with eco-friendly bamboo-based alternatives such as bottles, cutlery, and plates.
• Committed to promoting a greener, plastic-free future.

2️. Rebloomers – Upcycled Fabric Creations

• A student-led foundation transforming discarded fabrics into stylish bags, wallets, and pouches.
• Advocates for zero-waste fashion and sustainable consumption.

3️. Profeed – Healthy Protein Bars & Millet Cookies

• A nutrient-rich, no-added-sugar snack brand designed for health-conscious consumers.
• Focused on providing wholesome, high-protein alternatives to promote a healthier lifestyle.
• Pioneering Healthy can be tasty mantra.

The launch in record time is a testament to the power of young minds in shaping the future of business and sustainability. By fostering innovation at an early stage, The Scindia School aim to ignite a culture of entrepreneurship among students, inspiring them to think big, take risks, and make an impact.

The founders are empowered to do a need analysis, write a professional business plan, negotiate with vendors, design and brand the product, market the product, achieve the Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ), develop a high Social Quotient (SQ) while they are still in school.

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The White Canvas India Young CEO program is committed to make every Scindian a Viksit Bharat Ambassador, exclaimed Samaresh Shah, Founder- White Canvas India.

YB Chavan Auditorium became a hub of creativity as Kala Ka Karawaan, an initiative by Salaam Bombay Foundation, provided students from Mumbai’s municipal and government aided schools with a platform to showcase their artistic and media skills on February 20, 2025. The event highlighted the transformative impact of arts education through performances, exhibitions, and interactive stalls.

A key highlight was the exhibition by students from the Arts Academy, where paintings, photography, and digital artwork captured various facets of Indian culture. Visitors also engaged with students at interactive stalls that showcased photography, filmmaking, podcasting, and magazine writing, demonstrating the skills they had honed through the Media Academy.

Theatre and dance performances brought another dimension to the event, as students expressed themselves through movement and dialogue, addressing real-world issues and their lived experiences.

The event also featured alumni who have successfully turned their training into professional careers. Priti Singh, an Arts Academy alumnus, displayed her latest paintings. Sagar Kanojia, a former dance student, returned as a choreographer, and Kushal Mahale, now a professional photographer and video editor, presented his portfolio. Their journeys exemplify how skill-based education can create real career opportunities.

Speaking about the event, Rajashree Kadam, Senior Vice President (Arts and Media), Salaam Bombay Foundation, said, “Kala Ka Karawaan demonstrates that if students from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds are given the right education and opportunities, they can achieve extraordinary success. Our programmes align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which not only promotes vocational training and creativity but also highlights the significant role of training in arts and culture in students’ holistic development. This event underscores the importance of integrating arts and media into mainstream education.”

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Renowned theatre director Jeff Goldberg shared his thoughts, “The confidence, talent, and storytelling skills these students possess are incredible. Arts education is not just about skill-building but also about giving young people a voice. Salaam Bombay Foundation is doing a phenomenal job ensuring that students from municipal schools get these opportunities.” 

Bhushan Gagrani, BMC Commissioner, added, “Students in Mumbai’s municipal schools have immense potential. Organisations like Salaam Bombay Foundation prove that, with the right platforms, they can excel in fields beyond traditional academics. We must continue to invest in arts education and skill-based learning for a brighter future.”

The United States is undergoing a major shift in its education policy under President Donald Trump’s administration, with a plan to abolish the US Department of Education through an executive order. This move has sparked widespread fear and uncertainty among education professionals in the US, with experts arguing that it could have far-reaching implications—not just for America but for global education, including India.

What’s Happening in the US?

The Trump administration’s education policies have long been focused on decentralisation—moving decision-making power from the federal government to individual states. The latest effort aims to dismantle the Department of Education altogether, returning full control of education to state governments.

A report by The Guardian describes the panic among Department of Education employees, who fear losing their jobs as federal funding for education faces imminent cuts (source). The department currently supports around 7.5 million students with disabilities and provides critical funding to Title I schools, which cater to over 26 million children living in poverty. The proposed shutdown could mean an end to federal oversight of educational equity, potentially worsening disparities in access to quality education.

The administration has also issued directives eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in federally funded schools, warning that failure to comply could result in the loss of funding for essential services such as student loans, free lunch programs, and special education support (source).

Why Does This Matter Beyond the US?

America’s education policies often set a global precedent, influencing trends in international education, research collaborations, and student exchange programs. If the US withdraws from actively shaping global education policies, it could create a ripple effect on countries, including India, where millions aspire to study in American universities.

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1. Funding Cuts Could Impact Indian Students Studying in the US

   • The US is the top destination for Indian students, with nearly 200,000 Indian students enrolled in American universities in 2024.
   • If Trump’s administration cuts federal student loan programs, the financial burden on international students could increase.
   • Scholarship opportunities, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, could shrink significantly.

2. Loss of DEI Programs Could Make US Universities Less Inclusive for Indian Students

   • The directive to eliminate diversity and inclusion programs from federally funded institutions could reduce support services for Indian and other international students.
   • Many Indian students rely on DEI initiatives that offer mentorship, career guidance, and cultural adaptation programs.

3. Impact on Higher Education Partnerships

   • India has multiple research collaborations with US universities in fields like AI, healthcare, and climate science.
   • A weakened Department of Education may reduce funding for research collaborations, impacting Indian researchers working in the US.

4. Could India See a Similar Shift in Education Policy?

   • India is currently in a phase of educational reform, with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasising equitable access to education.
   • If the US reduces investment in public education, there’s concern that other nations, including India, may deprioritise education spending in the long run.

Who Will Be Affected the Most in India?

The biggest impact of the US education shake-up could be felt among economically weaker students and marginalised communities in India.

• Indian students from lower-income backgrounds aiming for US education could struggle with financial aid.
• Institutions collaborating with US universities may see a decline in research funding.
• Public education in India, which already faces funding constraints, might suffer if government priorities shift away from long-term investment in education.

A Step Back for Global Education?

Education has long been seen as the great equaliser, but dismantling federal oversight on education in the US may widen inequalities, not just within America but worldwide. The Time Magazine report on the history of US education policies (source) shows that education reforms have often been tied to social equity movements. Removing this federal framework could reverse decades of progress in education equality.

Experts argue that international collaboration is key in shaping future-ready education systems. However, if the US retracts its role in funding and regulating equitable education, it might push other nations towards privatisation and deregulation, creating greater disparities in access to quality learning.

What Next?

For Indian students, parents, and educators, this is a moment of introspection and advocacy. As the US undergoes these drastic changes, India must ensure that:

1. Financial support structures remain intact for Indian students aspiring to study abroad.
2. Global research collaborations continue, even if funding sources shift.
3. Domestic education policies remain focused on equitable access, rather than mirroring privatisation trends.

The US education system has long served as a benchmark for excellence, but its current trajectory raises concerns for students worldwide. For Indian students looking towards the US for higher education, the road ahead could be more uncertain than ever.