Context:
Recently, the Defence Ministry said that the scheme for new Sainik Schools is “well thought out” and the “political or ideological affiliation or otherwise” of the applicant institution does not influence the selection process.
Relevance:
GS II: Government Policies and Interventions
Sainik Schools Overview
Nature and Affiliation
- Type: Residential schools
- Education Affiliation: Provide Public School Education and are affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), New Delhi.
Funding
- Source: Funded jointly by the Central and State governments.
Establishment and Objective
- Inception: The scheme to establish Sainik Schools was introduced in 1961.
- Primary Aim: To prepare students academically, physically, and mentally for entry into the National Defence Academy (NDA).
Governance
- Authority: Under the overall governance of the Sainik Schools Society, which is registered under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860.
- Ministry: Operates under the Ministry of Defence, with a focus on preparing students for NDA admission.
Geographical Presence
- Current Schools: As of now, there are 33 Sainik Schools located across various regions of India.
- Admission Policy: Starting from the academic session 2021-22, girls cadets have also been granted admission to Sainik Schools.
Recent Developments and Initiatives
- Expansion Plan:
- The Government of India has sanctioned the establishment of 100 new Sainik Schools.
- This initiative, led by the Sainik Schools Society under the Ministry of Defence, aims to collaborate with NGOs, private schools, and state governments.
- Objective of Expansion: To cultivate an academically proficient, culturally conscious, intellectually skilled, confident, patriotic, self-reliant youth community.
- Leadership Focus: The initiative emphasizes nurturing leadership qualities and instilling a sense of utmost priority towards the nation among the students.
