Maharashtra: Schools To Host Republic Day Activities To Inspire National Pride Among Students
Maharashtra: Schools To Host Republic Day Activities To Inspire National Pride Among Students
Pune: Emphasizing the importance of instilling pride in India’s culture, history, and future among students, the School Education Department has issued directives for all schools in Maharashtra to organize special activities on Republic Day (January 26).
According to the newly released government resolution, schools—both government and private—across all mediums must celebrate Republic Day with various programs after the flag hoisting ceremony. These include singing the national anthem and state song, reciting the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, and performing patriotic songs.
Schools have also been instructed to organize activities such as processions, speeches on themes like freedom fighters and democracy, poetry recitations, art exhibitions, patriotic-themed dance competitions, and essay writing contests. Additionally, schools are encouraged to arrange games and display handicrafts created by students. Activities should be age-appropriate and thoughtfully planned.
To enhance community involvement, the directives suggest engaging local freedom fighters, ex-servicemen, elected representatives, school management committees, teachers, parents, and prominent citizens. Educational officers at the district level have been tasked with ensuring proper implementation of these programs.
However, the decision has drawn mixed reactions. Education expert Dr. Vasant Kalpande noted that excessive activities might hinder students’ creativity, calling for a structured annual schedule for extracurricular activities. Similarly, Maharashtra State Primary Teachers’ Association President Vijay Kombe stressed the need to limit the number of school activities to maintain focus on academics.
