Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launches ‘School Chalo Abhiyan’ for Academic Session 2026-27 in Varanasi

Chief Minister appeals to every section of society: Ensure no child is left out of school

The responsibility of shaping the future has been entrusted by God only to teachers: Chief Minister

Dropout rate has reduced from 19% before 2017 to just 3% now, must be brought down to zero: Chief Minister

Chief Minister highlights progress in education, says ₹80,000 crore now being spent on school education

Around 60 lakh new children enrolled in basic education schools in 9 years: Chief Minister

Chief Minister praises Chitrakoot DM’s initiative of enrolling his child in an Anganwadi centre

Varanasi, April 2026 : Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath called upon teachers, parents, public representatives and all sections of society to ensure that no child is deprived of education. Describing education as the most sacred responsibility, he said every individual gets an opportunity to become accomplished, and those who shape themselves accordingly achieve success.

He emphasized that every child must be taken to school. When a child becomes educated and cultured, they express gratitude and show respect throughout life. When a child becomes literate, society progresses and the nation achieves new heights of prosperity. Conversely, illiteracy leads to poverty and backwardness. Therefore, every child must be educated to move towards a developed India.

Chief Minister launched the ‘School Chalo Abhiyan’ for the academic session 2026-27 at the Composite School, Shivpur Varunapar Zone in Varanasi. He inspected an exhibition set up by students on the school premises and interacted with them.

He extended his best wishes for their bright future and emphasized the importance of the campaign. He noted that approximately 60 lakh new children have been enrolled in basic education schools over the past 9 years.

Chief Minister urged teachers to actively participate in the campaign from April 1 to April 15. He directed principals to engage with parents and encouraged teachers to visit homes in villages and localities before school hours to identify children who are not attending school. Parents should be informed that the government is providing all facilities free of cost and should be encouraged to enrol their children.

He stressed that every teacher, Shikshamitra and instructor must ensure no child is left out. Once all data related to enrolment is uploaded, funds will be transferred to parents’ accounts through DBT within 3-4 days. Between April 15 and April 30, meetings should be held with parents regarding uniforms, shoes and other essentials. This process should continue regularly.

Recalling his visits before 2017, the Chief Minister spoke about the poor condition of basic education schools. In one school, only 10 students were left, and even those were likely to drop out. When he revisited after 3 years, the number had risen to 250, and the same principal was later selected for a President’s Award. He said such transformation is possible in every school.

Chief Minister stated, teachers’ efforts have made ‘Operation Kayakalp’ a success. NITI Aayog has recognized it as one of the most successful education initiatives in Uttar Pradesh. More than 1.36 lakh schools have been equipped with basic infrastructure. Through Operation NIPUN, children have developed interest in learning and gained foundational literacy and numeracy skills.

He remarked that before 2017, education was not on the government’s agenda. The dropout rate was 19%, especially after classes 3 to 6. Children stayed away from school due to lack of basic facilities like toilets and drinking water. These gaps have now been addressed.

Highlighting reforms inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Chief Minister said that separate toilets for boys and girls and drinking water facilities have been ensured in all schools. The dropout rate has declined to 3% and must be reduced to zero. Uttar Pradesh now spends more than ₹80,000 crore on school education. Kasturba Gandhi schools have been expanded up to class 12, and Atal Residential Schools have been established for children of workers and destitute families.

He stated, every child now receives free uniforms, sweaters, bags, books, socks and shoes. After enrolment, funds will be transferred via DBT in two phases on April 15 and July 15. Each child is provided ₹1200 for uniforms and related items. Teachers must ensure that children attend school in proper uniform.

Chief Minister emphasized that teachers have been entrusted with the responsibility of shaping the nation’s future. If they fulfil this duty sincerely, their lives will be meaningful and successful. Education is not just about certificates or degrees, but about building character and shaping the future of society and the nation.

He praised the District Magistrate of Chitrakoot for enrolling his own child in an Anganwadi centre, calling it an inspiring example for teachers and society.

Chief Minister announced that from this month, instructors will receive ₹17,000 and Shikshamitra ₹18,000 as honorarium. Teachers, instructors and cooks will also receive ₹5 lakh cashless health insurance coverage.

He directed teachers to ensure cleanliness and proper arrangements in schools before reopening in July. Clean toilets and drinking water must be ensured. Teaching should focus on practical and skill-based learning instead of rote methods.

He urged officials to involve MPs, MLAs, MLCs, mayors, block heads, panchayat representatives and parents in the campaign, turning it into a people’s movement. He emphasized creating a positive and value-based school environment for holistic child development, which will contribute to building a prosperous and self-reliant India.

Several ministers and public representatives, including Rakesh Sachan, Anil Rajbhar, Ravindra Jaiswal and others, were present on the occasion.