NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Education has issued a directive to all States and Union Territories to initiate urgent measures to ensure the student safety and well-being.
Mandatory safety audits of schools and child-related facilities as per national safety codes, training of staff and students in emergency preparedness, and the provision of psychosocial support through counselling and peer networks are among the measures suggested by the Ministry of Education.
Major recommendations
Preventive safety measures
All schools and public facilities used by children and youth must undergo safety audits in accordance with national safety codes and disaster management guidelines. Structural integrity, along with fire safety, emergency exits, and electrical wiring, must be thoroughly assessed.
Awareness and training
It must be ensured that staff and students are trained in emergency preparedness, including evacuation drills, first-aid, and safety protocols.
The Ministry of Education has issued a directive to all States and Union Territories to take urgent steps to ensure the student safety and well-being. This includes mandatory safety audits of schools and child-related facilities as per national safety codes, training for staff…
— Ministry of Education (@EduMinOfIndia) July 26, 2025
Collaborations with local authorities (NDMA, fire services, police, and medical agencies) must be strengthened to conduct periodic training sessions and mock drills.
Psychosocial well-being
In addition to physical safety, mental health and emotional well-being must be prioritised through counselling services, peer support systems, and community engagement initiatives.
Reporting mechanism
Any dangerous situation, near miss, or incident involving potential harm to children or youth must be reported within 24 hours to the designated State or UT authority.
Strict accountability must be ensured in cases of delay, negligence, or failure to act.
Public responsibility
Parents, guardians, community leaders, and local bodies should be encouraged to remain vigilant and report unsafe conditions in schools, public areas, or modes of transportation used by children and youth.
The Ministry urges the Education Departments, School Boards, and affiliated authorities to act without delay in implementing the above measures.
The Ministry of Education reaffirms its shared responsibility with States and Union Territories to ensure that no child or youth is put at risk due to preventable circumstances.