Maharashtra has reported the deaths of 584 students from ashram schools over the last two years, according to officials from the Tribal Development department. These residential schools, which serve tribal children, have faced scrutiny following the recent deaths of three girls from snakebites at a hostel in Gadchiroli.
The deaths have raised concerns about the safety and health conditions in these schools, prompting government action and public debate.
Understanding Ashram Schools in Maharashtra
Ashram schools are residential institutions primarily aimed at providing education and shelter to tribal children in Maharashtra. The state operates 500 government-run ashram schools and supports 513 aided ashram schools, which receive government assistance but are managed privately or by trusts.
These schools are intended to offer tribal students access to education in remote areas, often where local infrastructure and resources are limited. Students live on campus, receiving not just education but also meals and healthcare services.
Details on Student Deaths in Ashram Schools
- Between 2024 and 2026, a total of 584 deaths were recorded among ashram school students.
- In government-run schools, 384 deaths occurred, while 200 deaths were reported in aided schools.
- In the financial year 2024-25, 170 students died; in 2025-26, 214 deaths were reported in government schools.
- Of these, 36 deaths happened on school premises, while 348 occurred at students’ homes.
- In aided schools, 81 deaths were recorded in 2024-25 and 119 in 2025-26, with 30 deaths on school grounds and 170 at home.
- Causes of death include snakebites, sickle cell disease, serious illnesses, accidents, and suicides.
Why These Deaths Matter for Tribal Education
The high number of deaths has sparked criticism of the Maharashtra government’s handling of tribal welfare and school safety. Opposition parties have accused the current administration of negligence and corruption, linking these issues to inadequate care and oversight in ashram schools.
The recent incident in Gadchiroli, where three tribal girls died from venomous snakebites in a residential hostel, intensified calls for reform. Following this, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ordered the permanent cancellation of the license of the government-aided residential school involved.
This situation highlights the challenges faced by tribal communities in accessing safe and quality education. It also raises questions about the healthcare and emergency response systems in remote residential schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are ashram schools in Maharashtra?
A: Ashram schools are residential educational institutions designed to provide schooling and shelter to tribal children, especially in remote areas of Maharashtra.
Q: What caused the deaths of students in these schools?
A: Causes include snakebites, sickle cell disease, serious illnesses, accidents, and suicides, with some deaths occurring on school premises and others at home.
Q: What actions has the government taken after the recent deaths?
A: The Maharashtra government canceled the license of the government-aided residential school in Gadchiroli where three girls died from snakebites, signaling a move toward stricter oversight.
