Aryavarth (New Delhi): In a landmark development for women’s empowerment and education, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the first all-girls sainik school in Vrindavan, Mathura. This pioneering institution, named Samvid Gurukulam Girls Sainik School, marks a significant step in providing equal opportunities for girls aspiring to join the Indian armed forces.
The school, which currently accommodates approximately 870 students, is part of a broader initiative by the government. This initiative aims to establish 100 new sainik schools in collaboration with NGOs, private entities, and state government schools across all states and Union territories. These new schools are in addition to the 33 existing sainik schools that operate under the previous framework.
During the inauguration, Defence Minister Singh emphasized the importance of this milestone in women’s empowerment. He highlighted the government’s commitment under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership to ensure women’s rightful place in the armed forces. Singh reflected on the historic decision taken in 2019 to admit girls to sainik schools, a move that followed the successful pilot project at Sainik School Chhingchhip in Mizoram starting from the academic session 2021-22.
The vision behind setting up 100 new sainik schools aligns with the National Education Policy 2020. It aims to provide quality education and better career opportunities, including roles in the armed forces. Moreover, the initiative allows for a synergistic partnership between the private sector and the government in nation-building efforts, focusing on nurturing today’s youth into responsible citizens.
The inauguration ceremony, attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and senior state officials, underscores the growing emphasis on gender equality in India’s defense sector and the broader societal push towards empowering women.