West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced upcoming changes in school syllabi and the introduction of tablet-based learning to support students. These changes aim to promote nationalism and align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The government is also reviewing the status of 933 state-aided schools closed due to zero enrolment to decide their future use.
- Annual programmes on nationalism will be held in schools.
- Syllabus changes will begin from the next academic year.
- Mobile phones will be replaced by tablets for students up to Class 12.
- A committee is assessing closed schools for revival or alternative use.
What are the new educational programmes proposed by the West Bengal government?
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari proposed that all educational institutions in West Bengal hold a three-day annual programme featuring elocution, quizzes, and debates. These events aim to instill a sense of nationalism among students and keep them away from negative influences described metaphorically as "vices like cockroaches."
How will the syllabus change in West Bengal schools?
The government plans to implement changes in school syllabi starting from the next academic year. These changes will align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The Chief Minister emphasized removing content that is anti-India, anti-Sanatani, or offensive to any religion. The syllabus revision also intends to correct past influences that, according to the government, attempted to erase people's heritage and culture.
What is the government’s stance on mobile phone use in schools?
The West Bengal government opposes the use of mobile phones by students up to Class 12. Instead of providing Rs 10,000 to each Class 11 student to purchase a mobile phone, as done previously, the government will supply tablets to support their studies. This move aims to provide controlled and educational technology access to students.
What is the situation with closed schools in West Bengal?
West Bengal has 933 state-aided schools closed due to zero enrolment. The government formed a committee to assess these schools' future, including options such as revival or alternative public use. District-level committees led by district magistrates will verify the condition of school buildings, classrooms, land, and other assets. They will also evaluate the availability of teachers and basic amenities.
The committees will prepare district-wise reports with recommendations within 30 days. Schools in remote areas with no alternatives are expected to continue functioning. The government prefers not to hand over these properties entirely under public-private partnerships. Possible alternative uses for idle infrastructure include training centres, health centres, agricultural and rural development centres, or community facilities.
What historical and political context did the Chief Minister mention?
Chief Minister Adhikari criticized the previous 34-year Communist rule and 15-year Trinamool Congress (TMC) government for attempting to erase cultural heritage and stop National Cadet Corps (NCC) enrolments. He mentioned that the TMC replaced NCC with the "Jai Hind Vahini." He also referred to past textbook content that praised anti-land acquisition agitations, such as those that drove Tata Motors out of Singur.
