Lukewarm response for new Sainik Schools from North-Eastern states, UTs, Delhi

The government of India has granted its approval to open 100 Sainik Schools in the country. To achieve this target the Sainik Schools Society, under which these schools will be opened, is looking for interested schools to grant its approval so that it can function under its aegis.

One of the salient features of the scheme is that the schools will follow the Sainik School curriculum while following the National Education Policy (NEP).

According to the Ministry of Defence, “It is in line with the Government of India decision to provide an increased focus on value-based education enabling children to develop pride in the rich culture and heritage of this nation, effective leadership with character, discipline, sense of national duty and patriotism.”

“In the first phase, 100 affiliate partners are proposed to be drawn from States/NGOs/Private partners. The scheme is aimed at providing the Sainik School pattern of education to a larger cross-section of aspiring students all over the nation,” it added.

The Ministry said that a significant response has been observed from the various states. However, “at the same time, it is observed that participation of Private/ NGOs/ Govt Schools from Goa, Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Tripura, West Bengal, New Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar, Chandigarh, Lakshadweep, Puducherry, Ladakh & Jammu and Kashmir is lukewarm even when there is a bright opportunity for these States / UT Governments to have Sainik School established in their area,” the Ministry said adding that “Sainik Schools Society invites Private/ NGOs/Govt Schools of the aforementioned states to join the initiative for the benefit of the public at large.”