Jasudben ML School (JML) has introduced JML SPARK (School Parent Alliance for Raising Kids), a new initiative aimed at fostering dialogue, learning and engagement between the school and its parent community.

In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 vision of holistic development, the inaugural session titled ‘Creating Safe Spaces for Our Teens’ was conducted by Piya Marker and organised exclusively for parents of students from Classes 6 to 8. The session focused on encouraging trust and emotional resilience in parent adolescent relationships.

The session was facilitated by Piya Marker, an educator with over 26 years of experience, a master’s in special education and international certification as a parent coach. Addressing a full audience of parents, she discussed the changing landscape of adolescence shaped by social media, peer influence, academic pressure, evolving identities and the pursuit of validation. The session encouraged parents to reflect on how they can create safe spaces at home and in their relationships with their children by being more aware, responsive and emotionally present.

Founding principal of a school for children with learning disabilities, Marker, shared, “Today’s adolescents face a world that’s easier in comfort but harder in complexity. As parents, we must be vigilant, compassionate, and willing to evolve to truly understand the shifting ground they stand on, their safety depends on it!”

Shilpa Gandhi, Principal, Jasudben ML School, stated, “Parenting today comes with new age challenges. At Jasudben ML School, we believe education cannot be limited to the classroom. It must also include equipping our families to understand the emotional lives of children.”

Through the JML SPARK initiative, the school places emphasis on emotional intelligence, constructive school home dialogue and holistic child development, in line with the core principles of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It acknowledges that academic progress is closely linked to emotional safety, and that parenting, like education, must adapt to changing times.

This article appeared in BWEducation online portal on 25th June, 2025

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ICSE Topper 2025 Arnav Randery secured 99% in ICSE Exams 2025! Emerging as a school topper from Jasudben ML School, Mumbai, Arnav wants to become an Engineer. The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations, CISCE announced the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education, ICSE Result 2025 on April 30, 2025. When asked if his ICSE result 2025 is as per his expectation, Arnav said, “My efforts had been fruitful. I had a tremendous sense of accomplishment and thankfulness”

In an exclusive interview with Shiksha.com, Randery shared his ICSE Board Exams 2025 preparation strategy, career plans, tips for aspirants and more! Check out some interesting excerpts from the interview below:

ICSE Topper 2025 Jiya Munshi secured 98.40% in ICSE Exams 2025! Emerging as one of the school toppers from Jasudben ML School, Mumbai, Jiya aims to become an Engineer by completing her education through Indian Institute of Technology. The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations, CISCE announced the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education, ICSE Result 2025 on April 30, 2025. When asked if her ICSE result 2025 is as per her expectation, Jiya shared that she scored what she expected.

In an exclusive interview with Shiksha.com, Gulati shared his ICSE Board Exams 2025 preparation strategy, career plans, tips for aspirants and more! Check out some interesting excerpts from the interview below:

ICSE Topper 2025 Aryaveer Gulati secured 98.80% in ICSE Exams 2025! Emerging as a school topper from Jasudben ML School, Mumbai, Aryaveer wants to become an Engineer. The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations, CISCE announced the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education, ICSE Result 2025 on April 30, 2025. When asked if his ICSE result 2025 is as per his expectation, Aryaveer said, “I was expecting a good score since I had worked hard for it.”

Q: Congratulations on your result! How was your reaction after seeing the results?

A: I was so happy and proud when I saw my ICSE results. My efforts had been fruitful. I had a tremendous sense of accomplishment and thankfulness. It was made even more memorable by the joy of my family. I will always treasure that moment, which was both exciting and relieving.

Q: Did you score what you expected?

A: Yes, I was expecting a good score since I had worked hard for it

Q: Please tell us something about your family background.

A: My mother has been a professor at R.D. National College, teaching the Mass Media course for the past 20 years, while my father is a businessman dealing with event management.

Q: Please tell about the stream that you are targeting.

A: I am aiming to pursue the Science stream with a focus on Engineering, as I have a strong interest in technology, problem-solving, and innovation.

Q: What was your strategy to score above 95%?

A: I used to wake up at 7 a.m, got ready for school and had my breakfast. After that, I focused on school, taking notes and clearing doubts. Then, I studied core subjects from 4:30 to 6:00 PM and practiced questions from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. I studied lighter subjects in the evening and planned for the next day before sleeping by 11:00 p.m.

Q: Did you take any online or offline coaching?

A: I required some extra help in science and maths

Q: Who encouraged you the most in this journey?

A: My mother and grandmother were the main people who inspired me during my board exams. As a professor herself, my mother always stressed the value of knowledge, discipline, and constant effort. Her constant encouragement and support kept me going, especially when things got hard. In contrast, my grandmother taught me the value of perseverance and patience. She would frequently share her personal stories of conquering obstacles, serving as a reminder to me that hard work and dedication are just as important to success as skill. I was able to stay focused and determined during the exam period because of their love, wisdom, and faith in me.

Q: What was your routine during ICSE board exam preparation?

A: I used to wake up at 7 a.m, got ready for school and had my breakfast. After that, I focused on school, taking notes and clearing doubts. Then, I studied core subjects from 4:30 to 6:00 PM and practiced questions from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. I studied lighter subjects in the evening and planned for the next day before sleeping by 11:00 p.m.

Q: What are your future plans? Which career path are you aiming for?

A: My long-term goals center on a career in engineering, which blends creativity, problem-solving, and the real-world application of science and math. Engineering especially appeals to me since it

enables me to create solutions that can solve problems in the real world and enhance people’s lives.

My short-term objective is to achieve academic success, particularly in the foundational subjects of engineering, such as chemistry, physics, and mathematics. I want to get into a reputable engineering college, so I intend to study hard for entrance exams like JEE.

Q: What is your favorite subject?

A: My favorite subjects are chemistry and mathematics because they both push my thinking and broaden my perspective on how the world functions. I’m drawn to mathematics because of its logic and accuracy. I like working through intricate problems, following methodical procedures, and observing how a well-defined approach can result in a definitive solution. The fundamental nature of matter is explained by chemistry, which is why I find it fascinating. I like studying the periodic table, chemical reactions, and bonding, especially how predictable yet unexpected chemistry can be. Chemistry is made even more fascinating by conducting experiments and witnessing theory come to life in the lab because it blends theoretical understanding with real-world application.

Q: What is your dream college/institute?

A: One of the most prominent and sought-after engineering schools in India, the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) is known throughout the world for its superior teaching and research. Attending IIT Bombay is my dream. IIT Bombay is notable for its dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment in addition to its top-notch faculty and state-of-the-art facilities. A dream come true and a step closer to realizing my goals of becoming a proficient and influential engineer would be attending IIT Bombay.

Q: What are your future goals?

A: My short-term objective is to achieve academic success, with a special emphasis on getting good grades and getting ready for difficult entrance exams in order to get into a prestigious engineering school. In order to succeed in my chosen field, I’m determined to solidify my foundation in subjects like chemistry, physics, and mathematics. With internships, projects, and workshops, I hope to obtain real-world experience while specializing in an area of engineering that fits with my interests and abilities, like mechanical, computer science, or electronics. In order to be ready for challenges in the workplace, I also intend to develop strong leadership and problem-solving abilities. My long-term objective is to continuously improve my skills and keep up with the most recent developments in technology. My ultimate objective is to develop into a well-rounded engineer who blends technical proficiency with ethics, creativity, and a dedication to having a positive influence.

Q: Please share some tips for students prepping up to appear in ICSE Board Exams 2026

A: Some quick tips for ICSE 2026 aspirants are:

• Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly
• Plan a Realistic Timetable
• Stick to the Textbooks First
• Make concise and well organised Notes
• Practice Past Papers & Sample Papers
• Strengthen English Skills
• Focus on Understanding, Not Rote Learning
• Revise Regularly
• Stay Healthy

This article appeared in Shiksha online portal on 3rd May, 2025

Jasudben ML School (JML), Khar, recently held its first edition of Model United Nations (JML MUN). The event brought together 111 bright young minds from across Mumbai for a two-day intellectual journey simulating global diplomacy and policy-making. Organized completely by the students of JML School, the debates in MUN were intense, well-researched, and intellectually stimulating, offering a practical application of classroom learning.

Known for its focus on holistic education and learning of young minds, MUN by JML provided a platform for participants to engage in meaningful discourse, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving, emulating the structure and proceedings of the United Nations. Leading from the front was Keean Gorakshaker, as the Secretary-General of the MUN. Supporting him in key leadership roles were Deputy Secretaries-General Aariana Umrigar and Rayna Singh, all from JML.

Principal Damayanti Bhattacharya expressed immense pride in the students’ efforts and the overall success of the event. Reflecting on the MUN, she said, “At Jasudben ML School, we are committed to nurturing global citizens. The first edition of JML MUN has showcased the exceptional intellect, empathy, and initiative of our students. It is heartening to see them grapple with real-world issues and present solutions with such clarity and confidence. Events like this not only enhance academic learning but also build character, leadership, and the courage to question and create change.”

The conference concluded with a formal closing ceremony where the best-performing delegates from each committee were felicitated with awards, with Best Delegation won by combination of NM and Bombay Scottish Powai.

This article appeared in Education 21 online portal on 30 April, 2025

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Inputs shared by Mrs. Damayanti Bhattacharya on CISCE Results 2025

Maharashtra has once again upheld its strong academic performance in the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE), with a 99.90 per cent pass percentage in the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (Class 10) and 99.81 per cent in the Indian School Certificate (Class 12) for the 2025 academic year. The CISCE announced the results for both exams on Wednesday. Nationwide, over 2.5 lakh students appeared for Class 10 and nearly one lakh for Class 12 across India and abroad.

In Maharashtra, 29,282 students took the ICSE exam, while 3,723 appeared for ISC. Girls continued to outperform boys. In ICSE, girls achieved a 99.92 per cent pass rate, slightly ahead of boys at 99.89 per cent. In ISC, girls recorded 99.95 per cent, while boys were at 99.65 per cent.

The state’s ISC results are up from 99.71 per cent in 2024 and 98.69 per cent in 2023. ICSE pass rates, though slightly lower than 99.96 per cent in 2024, remain among the country’s highest.

Nationally, ICSE students recorded a 99.09 per cent pass rate, rising from 98.99 per cent in 2024. ISC students saw 99.02 per cent, up from 98.19 per cent last year and 96.93 per cent in 2023. Girls outshone boys again—ICSE: 99.37 per cent vs 98.84 per cent, ISC: 99.45 per cent vs 98.64 per cent.

Region-wise, the Western region, including Maharashtra and Goa, led ICSE with 99.83 per cent, while the Southern region topped ISC with 99.76 per cent. Goa achieved a perfect 100 per cent pass rate in both exams.

The option for rechecking and re-evaluation of answer scripts remains open till May 10, accessible via the ‘Public Services’ link on the CISCE website. Improvement exams for up to two subjects will also be held in July.

While declaring the results on Wednesday, Dr Joseph Emmanuel, chief executive and secretary of CISCE, reiterated the Council’s stance on discontinuing merit lists to discourage unhealthy competition, a policy first introduced in 2024.

In Maharashtra, candidates from marginalised communities and special difficulty categories also performed admirably.

For instance, scheduled tribe candidates in ISC achieved a 100 per cent pass rate, and students with learning disabilities and visual challenges continued to score above 90 per cent in many cases.

BMC’s first batch score 100 percent

The BMC-run Woollen Mill ICSE school achieved 100 percent results in the board exam. This is the first batch of the school situated at Grant Road.

Notable performances include Yuvasri Saravanan, who scored 93.02 per cent, and Arpit Yadav, who scored 91.08 per cent. The school achieved a 100 per cent pass result in the Class 10 ICSE board exam, said BMC officials. The school started in 2020-21.

Additional Municipal Commissioner Dr Amit Saini congratulated the students. A total of 27 students appeared for the Class 10 board exam. Among them, seven students scored 81 per cent or above.

Principals’ speak

Jamnabai Narsee school

The principal of Jamnabai Narsee School, Sonali Gandhi, said, “Our students’ outstanding performance in the board exams is a shining testament to their dedication and hard work. At Jamnabai Narsee School, we are committed to fostering a culture of excellence, providing our students with the support and resources they need to succeed. Our vision is to empower them to reach their full potential and achieve greatness in all their endeavours. We are incredibly proud of our students’ achievements and look forward to seeing them excel in the future.”

Bombay Scottish School

Talking about the performance of students in Bombay Scottish School- Mahim, Principal Sunita George said, “The results have been very good. We have topped the country in the science and commerce stream in ISC. The highest is 100 per cent. It is the first time that Grade XII toppers have secured 100 per cent, I think. At ICSE, our highest score is 99.6 per cent. 156 students out of 213 students have secured 90 per cent and above at Bombay Scottish Mahim. This year, the papers were more analytical, yet our students have done extremely well.”

Jasudben ML School

Damayanti Bhattacharya, principal, Jasudben ML School at Santacruz West, said, “This year, an impressive 74 per cent of our students scored above 90 per cent. Given the analytical and application-based orientation of the 2025 CISCE examinations, our students have commendably upheld the proud academic legacy of Jasudben ML School.

Podar International School Nerul

“A close analysis of the data has revealed that there has been a significant improvement in the performance of the students this year as compared to last year. A total of 189 students appeared in the examination, and 91 students achieved more than 90 per cent. There are no students below 66.6 per cent. Meticulous organisational planning and the unstinted efforts of all the faculty members have been instrumental in the success of the students,” said Dr Bhushan Bonde, principal, Podar International School Nerul.

Dhirubhai Ambani International School

“We are immensely proud of our students — 84 per cent of the cohort scored above 95 per cent, and 97 per cent of the cohort scored above 90 per cent. This year’s analytical exam format was met with confidence thanks to our faculty’s focused preparation and the students’ strong conceptual understanding,” said Anjana Roy, head of middle school & ICSE, Dhirubhai Ambani International School.

Results at glance

No of candidates appeared:

ICSE: 2,52,557

Boys: 1,34,700 – 53.33 per cent

Girls: 1,17,857 – 46.67 per cent

ISC: 99,551

Boys: 52,339 – 52.58 per cent

Girls: 47,212 – 47.42 per cent

Overall pass percentage

ICSE: 99.09per cent

ISC: 99.02per cent

Schools in Maharashtra that presented candidates:

ICSE: 270

ISC: 77

No of candidates appeared:

ICSE: 29,282

Boys: 15,721 – 53.69 per cent

Girls: 13,561 – 46.31 per cent

ISC: 3723

Boys: 1718 – 46.39 per cent are

Girls: 2006 – 53.85 per cent

Pass percentage

ICSE: 99.90 per cent

ISC: 99.81 per cent

This article appeared Mid-Day online portal on 30th April, 2025

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In an insightful conversation, Shilpa Gandhi, Vice Principal, Jasudben ML School, Mumbai, shares her vision of modern education that extends far beyond textbooks with Triparna Ray. She reflects on the transformation of schools into holistic development spaces, the promise and hurdles of implementing NEP 2020, and the evolving role of educators in the age of AI and mental health awareness. From sustainable schooling to rethinking assessments, Gandhi provides a thoughtful roadmap for shaping future-ready students.

With the evolving education system in India, how do you see the role of schools transforming beyond just academics to holistic child development?

Today, schools have evolved into environments that nurture holistic child development, and are not mere centers for academic learning; they . The need of the hour is fostering intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth in students. The focus is shifting towards developing life skills, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence alongside traditional academics. Schools are introducing experiential learning, arts, music, sports, and mindfulness practices to ensure students grow into well-rounded individuals. By emphasizing values such as empathy, teamwork, and resilience, we prepare students to thrive in an ever-changing world. The role of schools has expanded to mentoring students, fostering creativity, and instilling a sense of responsibility toward society.

What are some of the challenges and opportunities schools face in implementing NEP-2020 and multidisciplinary education effectively?

NEP-2020 presents a transformative vision for education, but its implementation comes with challenges. One major challenge is the transition from traditional rote learning to a more flexible, multidisciplinary approach. Teachers need extensive training to adapt to the new pedagogy, and infrastructure must be upgraded to support experiential and skill-based learning. Additionally, assessments need restructuring to align with competency-based learning rather than memorization.

However, NEP-2020 also provides numerous opportunities. It encourages students to explore diverse subjects, fosters creativity, and promotes critical thinking. The integration of vocational education and experiential learning bridges the gap between academics and real-world applications. Schools that effectively implement this policy will be able to nurture students who are adaptable, innovative, and well-prepared for the future.

As AI becomes a part of learning environments, how should schools balance technology integration with traditional learning methods to ensure effective education?

AI and technology are revolutionizing education, offering personalized learning experiences and interactive tools. However, it is crucial to maintain a balance between technology and traditional learning methods. At Jasudben ML School, we integrate AI-driven tools for adaptive learning while ensuring that human interaction remains central to education. The teacher’s role is irreplaceable in fostering creativity, ethical reasoning, and emotional intelligence. Schools must also educate students on responsible technology use and digital well-being. Hybrid models that combine AI-powered learning with hands-on activities, discussions, and collaborative projects can provide an enriching educational experience.

Academic pressure, social media exposure, and competition have significantly impacted students’ mental health. What role should schools play in promoting a healthier mindset among students?

Schools must take an active role in promoting student well-being. At Jasudben ML School, we emphasize the importance of mental health through counseling services, mindfulness sessions, and open conversations about stress management. Encouraging a growth mindset, where failures are seen as learning opportunities, helps reduce pressure. Additionally, promoting digital literacy helps students navigate social media responsibly. Schools should also encourage extracurricular activities that foster self-expression and personal growth. By creating a supportive environment and fostering strong student-teacher relationships, schools can help students build resilience and maintain a healthy balance between academic goals and personal well-being.

How can schools introduce sustainable practices and environmental responsibility in a way that influences young minds meaningfully?

Sustainability should be woven into the school curriculum and daily activities to instill lifelong environmental responsibility in students. At Jasudben ML School, we incorporate eco-friendly initiatives such as waste segregation, tree planting drives, and energy conservation programs. Students are encouraged to participate in sustainability projects and eco-clubs, making them active contributors to environmental solutions. Hands-on activities like gardening, recycling workshops, and awareness campaigns help students understand their impact on the planet. Schools should also integrate sustainability into lessons, demonstrating how subjects like science, geography, and economics intersect with environmental responsibility. By engaging students in meaningful sustainability efforts, we nurture future leaders committed to a greener world.

There is a growing conversation around rethinking assessments beyond traditional exams. In your opinion, what alternative assessment methods should schools adopt to evaluate a student’s overall growth?

Traditional exams primarily assess rote memorization, but education must evolve to recognize diverse talents and skills. Schools should adopt a mix of formative assessments, project-based learning, and real-world applications to evaluate student growth holistically. Portfolio assessments, where students showcase their progress through various assignments and projects, allow for a more comprehensive understanding of their learning journey. Peer assessments and self-reflections help students develop critical evaluation skills. Additionally, oral presentations, group discussions, and experiential learning activities can provide insights into a student’s conceptual understanding and creativity. By diversifying assessment methods, schools can ensure a more inclusive and equitable evaluation system that nurtures each student’s potential beyond test scores.

This article appeared in Brainfeed Magazine online portal on 23rd April, 2025.

Author Article by Damayanti Bhattacharya Principal, Jasudben ML School

Our country Bharat’s Future draws a lot from what it has been like in the past. India’s rich cultural heritage, deep-rooted values and immense knowledge base has survived generations and remains among us. We had a rampant gurukul system and even well-established universities that attracted worldwide scholars. At that time, we had meagre means for communication and spread of knowledge and wisdom. That has transformed.

Knowledge is now transferred in the blink of an eye and is available at our fingertips. But what about wisdom? The challenge is how to guide young minds to use this knowledge responsibly. It has become imperative to instil core values and nurture emotional intelligence in children from an early age.

A school, often considered a second home for children, therefore plays a vital role in training young minds to harness the power of technology in positive and ethical ways.

What will the world look like in 15 years? What kind of jobs will be available to today’s five-year-olds? Can we equip our children with the required knowledge? Not really. What we can do is use the power of India’s rich value system that has withstood the test of centuries.

Value-based Education and The Shift in Curriculum

The National Education Policy (NEP-2020) has taken this into consideration and incorporates value-based education right from the outset. It makes the goal of every school to nurture well-rounded individuals who will grow up to actively contribute in shaping India’s future. It redefines education as a meaningful service to society, rather than as a means to achieve professional achievement or financial gain. It promotes an education system that equips youngsters with necessary skills and mindset required to navigate through and thrive in a modern world.

As the State, CBSE, CISCE, and NCERT curricula undergo revisions, it’s more important to inculcate values into the educational framework to ensure that students engage with ethical thinking and moral reasoning from an early age. In the Early Childhood stage, where foundational values are best cultivated, ethics should be embedded into every subject, integrated into the learning process rather than an isolated topic. Value-driven experiential moves away from rote memorisation and towards a more immersive educational experience. It allows learners to internalise values organically through everyday interactions and educational experiences. They actively participate in tackling real-world challenges and reflecting on how their actions impact society. This integration can be further enriched by creating dedicated spaces for student growth, such as an Art Den, a Music and Dance Den, and a Language Den, among others.

Teachers as Role Models

The role of teachers has transformed as well. They are not only educators. They are mentors, role models, facilitators and influencers. Their emphasis from the early years should be on the promotion of experiential learning through discovery and self-directed activities. They need to upskill and be constantly updated on the world around them and stay relevant with each generation and their interests.

A flexible pedagogy that nurtures self-awareness, physical growth, relationships, communication, and conservation can create a holistic learning experience. This culture helps develop students who are well-equipped to contribute positively to society as well as carry these values into their personal and professional lives.

The Broader Impact on Society

Emphasizing value-based education has profound societal implications.  In today’s interconnected world, it helps bridge social divides and strengthens national unity. As students enter the workforce and take on leadership roles, they bring a strong moral and ethical foundation that this education system has given them. It helps them throughout their professional or personal lives and also contributes to a nation deep-rooted in values and principles such as justice, equality, and fairness. In a diverse country like ours, it helps to promote social cohesion and supports the holistic development of children— emotionally, socially, cognitively, aesthetically, and physically—allowing them to excel academically while also advancing their socio-emotional growth.

As India continues to evolve, it is crucial to embrace an educational vision that honours our core traditional values while also adopting a contemporary and forward-looking academic approach. This vision lays the groundwork for a more compassionate, just, and prosperous society.

This article appeared in Easy Shiksha online portal on 7th March, 2025.

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Transforming  Education with NEP 2020: Ravi Bagdi, Sports Coordinator, Jasudben ML School, Mumbai Discusses the Role of Sports in Holistic Student Growth.

NEP 2020 (The National Education Policy 2020) has introduced a groundbreaking shift in the way sports in  education is perceived. Historically considered an extracurricular activity, sports is now recognized as a core pillar of holistic development, contributing to students’ emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.

A recent PUMA-Nielsen survey reveals that Indian children spend only 86 minutes per week on physical activities, falling short of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended 420 minutes. This stark statistic highlights the urgent need for structured sports programs within schools. NEP 2020 addresses this gap by integrating sports-integrated learning into the Indian school curriculum, promoting fitness, life skills, and cultural values from an early age.

Sports: The Foundation of Holistic Development
Sports is no longer viewed as a mere pastime but as a significant driver of student development. Studies have consistently shown that students participating in physical activities experience better mental health, lower stress levels, and enhanced academic performance.

  NEP 2020 prioritizes sports-integrated learning, where games and fitness are part of the academic curriculum. This approach aims to instill the value of lifelong fitness among students, making education more comprehensive.

Initiatives such as the Fit India Movement perfectly align with NEP’s vision, urging students to embrace fitness as a habit, not just a goal. Through structured sports programs and inter-school tournaments, students develop crucial life skills like discipline, teamwork, time management, and the ability to perform under pressure.

Reviving Indigenous Sports: Building a Cultural Connection
One of the standout aspects of NEP 2020 is its emphasis on indigenous sports. By integrating traditional games into the school curriculum, the policy creates a unique blend of modern education and cultural awareness.

Games such as Kabaddi, Kho Kho, and Mallakhamb are now being promoted as part of the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2023. These activities not only enhance physical and mental well-being but also foster a deeper connection to India’s cultural roots.

Through indigenous sports, students learn life skills like communication, tolerance, and collaboration while appreciating the richness of India’s heritage. Schools are encouraged to incorporate these traditional games alongside modern sports to create a balanced curriculum.

Sports and Nation-Building: A Collective Responsibility
Sports extends beyond personal benefits, playing a vital role in building a healthy and responsible society. According to UNESCO, industrialized countries place equal emphasis on sports and academics, recognizing their combined contribution to nation-building.

India’s initiatives like Khelo India and the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) have significantly contributed to talent identification, infrastructure development, and promoting sports as a career path. The country’s growing success in international events like the Paralympics and Olympics is a testament to the increasing investment in the sports ecosystem.

NEP 2020’s integration of sports not only fosters healthier individuals but also nurtures future leaders who are physically fit, mentally sharp, and socially responsible.

Addressing Disparities in Sports Engagement

While the policy provides a strong framework, a disparity in sports engagement continues to exist. Many schools still prioritize academics over physical education, limiting students’ exposure to the benefits of sports.

NEP 2020 encourages schools to adopt a balanced approach, celebrating both academic and physical achievements. Incorporating daily sports activities into the curriculum ensures that students see athletics not as optional but as a crucial part of their overall development.

 Educators, parents, and policymakers must collectively work to address these disparities and create an environment where fitness and learning coexist seamlessly.

Conclusion: Building a Healthier and Happier India

The National  Education Policy (NEP) 2020 represents a significant step toward creating a balanced educational ecosystem where sports in education is as essential as academics. Through initiatives like the Fit India Movement, indigenous sports promotion, and structured tournaments, NEP lays the foundation for students to become well-rounded, responsible citizens.

Investing in both academic and physical development ensures that future generations are not only intellectually capable but also emotionally resilient and physically fit. As India strives for a developed future, holistic development through sports will play a vital role in shaping healthier and happier citizens who contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth.

This article appreared in Prittle Prattle News online portal on 27th December, 2024.

By Vahbiz Kerawalla, Dedicated psychologist and School Counselor, Jasudben ML School

Frequently overlooked by academic achievement and cultural expectations, Mental Health is a cornerstone of a student’s holistic development. According to WHO, worldwide around 14% of 10- to 19-year-olds (one in seven) suffer from mental health disorders, which frequently go undiagnosed. Further cultural transformation and rising academic stress negatively impact students’ mental health. Understanding how it influences overall development and resilience will help us in the long run.

Early Mental Health Support

As per the Mental Health Foundation, UK, 50% of all mental health issues appear by the age of 14. Resolving these early on can have a substantial impact on a person’s well-being and academic performance. The connection between academic success and mental health is direct- when students feel emotionally and mentally supported, they are able to concentrate and perform better even under pressure.  Schools can help students by guiding them to keep a positive mindset, help develop coping mechanisms, and increase emotional resilience, thus making their way in the face of adversity.

Student Challenges Today

Amidst a myriad of issues students face some are peer comparisons and pressure which may lead to feelings of inadequacy, the competitive nature of modern schooling, and high expectations which may lead to stress, and adolescents struggle with social acceptance and self-worth among others. All these can emerge as depression, social retreat, worry, depression, or low self-esteem affecting kids at a very young age.

School’s Role in Mental Health Support

Schools are uniquely positioned to improve students’ mental well-being. They may help students cope with a variety of issues by creating an inclusive and supportive environment. By providing safe counseling spaces, and regular wellness workshops students can deal with their mental health difficulties more effectively.

Need for a Proactive Mental Health Framework

To better support children, schools can follow these measures-

1. Create Safe Spaces in schools that provide emotional support and counseling without fear of being judged.
2. Organise Practical Workshops wherein students can be taught techniques for time management, life management, digital habits, and stress management among others.
3. To encourage peer support groups to avoid isolation and promote understanding.
4. Hold seminars to assist parents in recognizing indicators of mental distress at home.
5. Train educators to recognize any signs in students’ behaviour in classrooms.

Transforming the Educational Paradigm

As a child’s second home; the school environment has a significant impact on a student’s mental health. Schools can create an ecosystem where students’ mental health is valued equally with academic accomplishment. A culture that values mental health, early intervention, and supportive school rules, can make a big difference in that. It is time for society, educators, and parents, to take action and normalize mental health conversations rather than thinking of it as a taboo. As is said- a healthy mind is the cornerstone for a better future.

This article appeared in The Look India online portal on 6t December, 2024.