Maharashtra Government to launch ‘Samvad Chimuklyanshi’ campaign to improve tribal education and welfare on 7 February | Representational image
Mumbai: The state government is set to launch the ‘Samvad Chimuklyanshi’ (Dialogue with Children) campaign on 7 February 2025, initiated by Tribal Development Minister Ashok Uike. The campaign aims to address challenges faced by tribal students in ashram schools, focusing on their safety and the improvement of school facilities.
Inspections and direct dialogue sessions will be held across 497 government-run tribal ashram schools and hostels to identify and resolve issues affecting students’ well-being.
As part of the initiative, government officials and staff will stay overnight at these institutions to gain firsthand insight into the students’ daily challenges. In girls’ ashram schools, female officers will be designated for inspections, ensuring sensitivity towards their specific needs. The assessments will encompass key aspects such as student attendance, teacher engagement, and infrastructure quality.
A critical component of the inspections will be the evaluation of food quality, including the standard of food grains, hygiene in cooking areas, and overall kitchen cleanliness.
Additionally, the availability of clean drinking water will be scrutinised, focusing on the maintenance of R.O. filters, water storage systems, and the provision of hot water. Sanitation facilities, particularly separate provisions for girls, will also be assessed.
The campaign will further examine student safety measures, including the functionality of CCTV cameras, fire extinguishers, and other security apparatus. Girls’ hostels will undergo specific inspections to ensure secure environments, with attention to sanitary napkin vending machines and emergency alert systems.
Engagement with students will be a key aspect, allowing authorities to identify and address issues related to infrastructure, teaching quality, and security. This direct interaction is expected to facilitate swift resolution of concerns and provide the government with a comprehensive understanding of the students’ day-to-day challenges.
Additionally, essential facilities such as bedding, lighting, electrical fittings, and ventilation systems will be inspected. The condition of mattresses, bed sheets, pillows, fans, and windows will be evaluated to ensure student comfort and well-being.
Minister Uike highlighted that feedback from this initiative will inform policy decisions on crucial aspects such as food quality, hostel accommodation, drinking water availability, and teacher effectiveness. By integrating these insights, the government aims to significantly enhance the learning environment for tribal students.
