Pune: Retired Soldiers to Mentor School children Under Maharashtra’s ‘Happy Saturday’ Initiative
Pune: Retired Soldiers to Mentor School children Under Maharashtra’s ‘Happy Saturday’ Initiative
PUNE: In a pioneering move aimed at instilling discipline, patriotism, and leadership among students, the Maharashtra State School Education Department will now engage retired soldiers to train schoolchildren as part of the ongoing ‘Happy Saturday’ programme.
Announced by State School Education Minister Dada Bhuse during his recent visit to Pune, the initiative seeks to tap into the wealth of experience retired soldiers bring in areas like discipline, commitment, and national service. The initiative is designed to promote holistic development and character-building among students across state-run schools in Maharashtra.
“Through the ‘Happy Saturday’ initiative, retired soldiers will play an active role in shaping the mindset of the younger generation by sharing life experiences and participating in various training activities,” Bhuse said.
The programme will include military-style drills, physical fitness sessions, visits to war memorials and historical sites, inspirational talks, and screenings of educational films. These efforts are intended to develop a strong sense of national unity and civic responsibility among students.
Each year, around 5,000 soldiers retire in Maharashtra. The education department plans to compile a district-wise list of willing and qualified veterans who can voluntarily participate in the programme. A structured implementation plan is being prepared to ensure effective roll-out.
Initially, a pilot phase will be conducted in selected schools. Based on its success, the programme will be expanded across the state. Bhuse described this as “a proud step for Maharashtra,” adding that it aims to nurture values of national service among schoolchildren and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
