Girls in over 21,000 Maharashtra schools to receive self-defence training on Balasaheb Thackeray birth anniversary

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Girls studying in more than 21,000 schools across Maharashtra will be provided structured self-defence training as part of a year-long programme being rolled out to mark the birth anniversary of late Balasaheb Thackeray. The initiative forms a key component of the "Nation First" campaign, which will see a series of educational, motivational and skill-based activities conducted across the state throughout the year.

Programme to focus on safety, resilience and national values

The programme, guided by School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse, aims to strengthen physical safety, mental resilience and national values among students. Under the plan, self-defence training will be imparted to girls in 21,279 schools, while basic military-style training will be introduced through the services of 10,000 ex-servicemen. In addition, 10,000 motivational speakers will conduct guidance sessions focusing on personality development, discipline and national ideology.

67 training sessions planned between January and March

According to officials, the self-defence training programme is scheduled to begin around January 15, 2026, and will continue until March 20, 2026. As many as 67 sessions have been planned during this period, ensuring sustained engagement rather than one-time instruction. The curriculum has been designed to address real-life safety concerns while also supporting overall physical and mental well-being.

Multiple martial arts and yoga to be part of curriculum

The training will include basic self-defence movements and techniques to handle everyday situations, along with exposure to multiple martial arts disciplines such as Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, Krav Maga, Boxing, Kickboxing, Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Aikido and Wushu. Yoga sessions focusing on postures and pranayama will be an integral part of the programme to improve flexibility, concentration and emotional balance among adolescent girls.

Smart skills and military discipline modules included

In addition to physical training, "smart skills" modules will be conducted to enhance decision-making abilities, communication skills, stress management and self-confidence. Towards the concluding phase of the programme, students will also receive an introduction to basic military training, including discipline, parade, marching and an overview of the three defence services.

Programme coordinated by education department with NGO support

The entire initiative is being coordinated by the Maharashtra Primary Education Council under the School Education Department, with support from selected non-governmental organisations. Separately, NCC and Scout-Guide cadets, along with ex-servicemen, will play a role in imparting military discipline and lessons related to national defence.

Balasaheb Thackeray centenary to be marked with school activities

Throughout the birth centenary year, schools will also organise drawing, essay writing and elocution competitions based on the life and legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray. Additionally, 100 schools run by local self-government bodies across Maharashtra will be developed as "Model Schools" during the year.

Minister calls initiative a step towards women's empowerment

Reacting to the initiative, Minister Dadaji Bhuse said the government's objective is to ensure that every girl student is not only educated but also safe and self-reliant. He said the combination of self-defence, yoga and military discipline would help build confidence, strength and a deep sense of national pride among students, calling the programme a significant step towards women's empowerment in Maharashtra.