The primary aim of Sainik Schools is to prepare cadets academically, physically and mentally for entry into the National Defence Academy. Various steps are in place for ensuring the academic excellence of the cadets of 33 Sainik Schools. These include conducting of interactive training & close monitoring of progress of cadets, remedial classes for slow learners, introduction of latest pedagogical practices, in service course and training for teachers, guest lectures & motivational tours for cadets etc. 

Initially in 1961, 05 Sainik Schools were opened by the Government under the aegis of Sainik Schools Society. However, to meet the growing aspirations of the people and to attract youth from diverse socio-economic backgrounds in order to foster a sense of national integration and unity, 28 more Sainik Schools were subsequently opened across the country making it a total of 33 Sainik Schools.

Recently, in 2021, Government has approved a scheme to establish new Sainik Schools under partnership mode with Government/private schools/NGOs/Trusts etc in order to set up such schools on the pattern of existing Sainik Schools by aligning their education system with Sainik Schools ethos, value system and national pride. A total of 42 schools have been approved so far under partnership mode out of which sessions have commenced in 19 schools. 

In order to achieve gender equality and to pave way for induction of women in Armed Forces, Girl Cadets have also been inducted in all 33 Sainik Schools w.e.f. 2021-22.

The Sainik Schools have evolved over the years as a model in imparting quality education and training to cadets and prepare them to be good citizens and excel in all walks of life. 

Various initiatives have been undertaken by Sainik Schools to instill a sense of civic responsibility and leadership among cadets as indicated below:

• Prefectorial system is followed in all Sainik Schools where cadets are assigned with specific responsibilities to develop leadership qualities. 
• Cadets are encouraged to participate in various exchange programmes being organized among Sainik Schools and other Schools to make them understand about civic responsibilities and develop leadership qualities. 
• Sainik Schools undertake social work and community service projects including outreach programmes. Cadets are also involved in initiatives such as tree plantations drives, cleanliness campaigns, and volunteering at local community organizations. This help in fostering a sense of responsibility towards the society.
• Educational tours and visits are arranged to expose the cadets to diverse environments and situations. These experiences help in developing adaptability, cultural understanding, and a sense of responsibility towards the larger community.
• NCC is compulsory for both boys and girls cadets which help to develop qualities of character, courage and discipline among the cadets.  

This information was given by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt in a written reply to Lt Gen (Dr) D P Vats (Retd) in Rajya Sabha today.

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 The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated an Eklavya Model Residential School at Kuliana, district Mayurbhanj, Odisha today (November 20, 2023).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that during her childhood there was no school near her home; therefore, she had to go away from home for study. She said that many children were deprived of education at that time due to non-availability of a nearby school which is not the case today. She expressed confidence that with the opening of the Eklavya Model Residential School, local children will now have more opportunity for education.

The President said that education is the key to economic and social well-being. She advised parents to educate their children.

Addressing the children, the President said that she also comes from a humble background like them. She got the opportunity to serve the citizens, because of her education. She said that education can make them successful. Being an educated person, they can contribute to the progress of the country and society along with their own development.

The President said that the Government of India has started multi-pronged schemes through various ministries to provide railways, national highways, education, health and other such basic amenities in tribal dominated areas. She was happy to note that more than 700 Eklavya Model Residential Schools are being established across the country for education of tribal children. She said that in these schools more than 3.5 lakh tribal students across India will be able to get quality education and be able to contribute to the development of society and nation.

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DS/AK

 Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) are a system of central government schools in India under the auspices of the Ministry of Education, Government of India. These schools were established to cater primarily to the educational needs of children of transferable central government employees, including defense and paramilitary personnel, by providing a common educational platform across the country.

Key Features of Kendriya Vidyalayas:

1. Uniform Curriculum: KVs follow a standardized curriculum prescribed by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). This ensures consistency in education across all KVs, regardless of their location.

2. Availability Across Locations: Kendriya Vidyalayas are located in various parts of the country, including remote areas and defense stations, providing quality education to children whose parents are frequently transferred.

3. Affordable Education: The schools aim to provide quality education at a reasonable cost, making it accessible to children from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

4. Language Policy: While the medium of instruction in KVs is primarily Hindi and English, efforts are made to promote multilingualism, allowing students to learn multiple languages.

5. Holistic Education: Alongside academics, KVs focus on holistic development, offering various extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, music, debates, and science exhibitions.

6. Qualified Faculty: KVs typically have well-qualified and experienced teachers who undergo regular training and professional development programs.

7. Priority for Government Employees’ Children: Children of central government employees, including defense and paramilitary personnel, receive priority in admission to KVs. However, a certain number of seats are often available for non-government employee children through open admission processes.

8. Innovative Teaching Methods: KVs often adopt modern teaching methods and technology to enhance the learning experience of students.

9. Community Involvement: These schools often foster a sense of community and inclusivity, involving parents, local communities, and alumni in various school activities.

10. Strong Academic Record: KVs have a track record of producing well-rounded individuals who excel not only academically but also in various fields like sports, arts, and sciences.

Kendriya Vidyalayas play a vital role in providing quality education, particularly to the wards of central government employees. They aim to create an environment conducive to learning, fostering the overall development of students and preparing them for the challenges of the future.

 Navodaya Vidyalayas are a system of co-educational residential schools in India, established and managed by the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti, an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Education, Government of India. These schools aim to provide quality education, primarily to rural children, with an emphasis on promoting talent and enhancing the intellectual capabilities of students.

Key Features of Navodaya Vidyalayas:

1. Rural Focus: Navodaya Vidyalayas primarily target talented children from rural areas, ensuring that quality education is accessible to those residing in remote and rural regions.

2. Admission through Selection Test: Admissions to Navodaya Vidyalayas are based on an entrance examination called the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Selection Test (JNVST). This merit-based selection process aims to identify talented students from various districts.

3. Free Education: Navodaya Vidyalayas provide tuition-free education, including boarding and lodging, to all students. This enables students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to access quality education without financial constraints.

4. Multilingual Environment: While the medium of instruction is primarily in the regional language, Navodaya Vidyalayas also emphasize the learning of English and Hindi, fostering a multilingual environment.

5. Holistic Development: Alongside academics, these schools focus on extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, music, and cultural programs to ensure the holistic development of students.

6. Innovative Teaching Methods: Navodaya Vidyalayas often adopt modern teaching methodologies, educational technology, and interactive learning tools to enhance the learning experience.

7. Quality Infrastructure: The schools typically have well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, libraries, sports facilities, and residential accommodations to provide a conducive learning environment.

8. Community Engagement: Navodaya Vidyalayas encourage the involvement of local communities, parents, and alumni in various school activities and initiatives.

9. Emphasis on Values: Besides academic excellence, these schools promote values like integrity, leadership, social responsibility, and respect for diversity.

10. Success Stories: Many alumni from Navodaya Vidyalayas have excelled in diverse fields, contributing significantly to various professions and sectors across the country.

Navodaya Vidyalayas play a pivotal role in identifying and nurturing the talents of rural students, providing them with opportunities for quality education, personal growth, and future success. They aim to bridge the gap between rural and urban educational standards and create a brighter future for talented children from rural areas.

 Delhi Public School (DPS) is a renowned chain of private educational institutions in India known for its quality education, comprehensive curriculum, and emphasis on holistic development. Established by the Delhi Public School Society, these schools follow a standardized curriculum while maintaining individuality and academic excellence across various locations.

Key Aspects of Delhi Public Schools:

1. Legacy and Network: DPS has a vast network of schools across India and even internationally, maintaining a reputation for academic excellence and holistic development. Each school, while following a core curriculum, often adapts to regional needs and preferences.

2. Quality Education: These schools are known for their high academic standards and comprehensive educational programs that encompass various subjects, co-curricular activities, and extracurricular initiatives.

3. Curriculum: DPS typically follows the CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) curriculum, emphasizing a well-rounded education covering subjects like mathematics, sciences, languages, social sciences, arts, and physical education.

4. Holistic Development: The schools focus not only on academics but also on fostering students’ overall growth by encouraging participation in sports, arts, cultural activities, and community service.

5. Infrastructure and Facilities: DPS campuses often boast modern infrastructure, well-equipped classrooms, libraries, laboratories, sports facilities, and technology integration to support modern learning methodologies.

6. Faculty and Staff: Highly qualified and experienced educators are a hallmark of DPS, ensuring quality teaching and mentorship for students.

7. Values and Ethics: DPS emphasizes moral and ethical values, aiming to nurture responsible and socially conscious individuals.

8. Extracurricular Activities: These schools encourage students to participate in various extracurricular activities like debates, quizzes, music, dance, drama, and sports to foster a well-rounded personality.

9. Parental Involvement: DPS often encourages parental involvement in a child’s education, organizing events, workshops, and parent-teacher meetings to foster a supportive learning environment.

10. Alumni Network: Many DPS alumni have excelled in diverse fields globally, contributing to society and upholding the reputation of the institution.

DPS institutions are widely recognized for their commitment to providing quality education and shaping young minds to face the challenges of the modern world. They focus not only on academic excellence but also on instilling values, leadership qualities, and a sense of social responsibility in their students.

 Marching ahead in tune with National Education Policy (NEP), Government has decided to provide increasing focus on value-based education enabling children to develop pride in rich culture and heritage of this nation, effective leadership with character, discipline, sense of national duty and patriotism through setting up of 100 new Sainik Schools under Sainik Schools Society, Ministry of Defence in partnership with Private Schools/NGOs/States. 

Towards this end, applications were invited for joining the initiative only through the web portal https://sainikschool.ncog.gov.in. Presently, 284 schools have registered therein and the evaluation for identifying prospective partners is underway for the academic session 2022-23. In view of the response to this initiative and the need for finalising the evaluation in a time bound manner, it is now being considered to close the receipt of further applications. Accordingly, closing date for any fresh registrations on the web portal https://sainikschool.ncog.gov.in is 31 January 2022. No fresh registrations will be accepted after 31 January 2022 as the portal will be closed for this purpose for the academic session 2022-23.