In a significant move aimed at shaping the next generation, the Maharashtra government has announced the introduction of basic military training for students beginning in Class 1. This initiative was revealed by State School Education Minister Dada Bhuse, who emphasized its goals of fostering patriotism, discipline, and physical fitness among children from an early age.
Minister Bhuse explained that the training program will be implemented with the assistance of retired army personnel, school sports teachers, officials from the National Cadet Corps (NCC), and members of the Scouts and Guides. “This decision has been taken to instill love for the country and encourage daily habits like physical exercise and disciplined living, which will greatly benefit students in the long run,” he stated.
The initiative has garnered support from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, with plans to deploy over 250,000 ex-servicemen across schools to facilitate effective execution of the program.
This announcement comes against a backdrop of heightened national security awareness, particularly in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 and India’s decisive military response under Operation Sindoor on May 7, which targeted terrorist bases located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Additionally, India has undertaken extensive civil defense exercises recently, including ‘Operation Abhyas’ on May 7 and ‘Operation Shield’ on May 31. These nationwide drills were designed to prepare both citizens and local authorities for possible emergency situations, showcasing a commitment to strategic preparedness on a national scale.
Maharashtra’s military training initiative for students is being perceived as an essential aspect of broader efforts to instill a culture of readiness and resilience, starting with the country’s youngest citizens. This landmark initiative marks a strategic step towards nurturing a patriotic spirit and disciplined lifestyle within the educational framework of the state.
