Assam to Set Up 80 New Model Schools in Tea Garden Areas with Mid-Day Meals and Smart Classrooms

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced a major initiative aimed at transforming the educational landscape in the state’s tea garden areas. Speaking at an interaction with headmasters of Tea Garden Model Schools and Adarsha Vidyalayas, the Chief Minister revealed plans to open 80 new model schools in these regions. This is part of a larger state government initiative to establish 200 model schools across 800 tea estates in Assam.

The move is intended to bring about qualitative improvements in education for children in tea garden communities, which have long been underserved. The new schools will come equipped with smart classrooms and facilities such as smart boards. The government also plans to expand the mid-day meal scheme to include students in classes 9 and 10, building upon the current provision that extends only up to class 8. This is being considered to address the issue of student dropouts in higher classes.

As of November 2022, foundation stones for 118 model schools had already been laid, and these schools are currently operational in tea garden areas. With the announcement of 80 more schools, the state is making significant progress toward its goal of comprehensive education coverage in these communities.

The Chief Minister also underscored the importance of encouraging students from all communities—not just those from tea garden backgrounds—to enroll in these schools. This, he said, would help promote better social integration and understanding among various communities.

Another key area of focus is the improvement of infrastructure and working conditions for teachers. Sarma emphasized the government’s commitment to not only building schools but also ensuring that teaching staff have good service conditions and a supportive work environment.

To further enhance educational outcomes, the government is planning to introduce one year of compulsory apprentice training for B.Ed students in Tea Garden Model Schools and Adarsha Vidyalayas. This initiative aims to provide trainee teachers with real classroom experience while strengthening the human resources available in these schools.

The Chief Minister also reviewed the performance of existing model schools and Adarsha Vidyalayas, looking at parameters such as teacher strength, student attendance, and pass percentages. Currently, there are 57 Adarsha Vidyalayas functioning across the state. These schools were established to promote talent, values, and creativity through high-quality education, particularly in remote and underserved regions.

To improve student attendance, especially in remote areas, the government will distribute bicycles to students from class 6 onwards. In addition, to promote health and encourage regular school attendance, a School Breakfast Programme is under consideration. This would be complemented by mandatory health checkups for students.

Overall, the Assam government’s multi-pronged initiative seeks to uplift educational standards in tea garden areas through better infrastructure, inclusive enrollment, nutritious meals, and skilled teaching support. These steps reflect a comprehensive approach to education reform, aimed at long-term social development and community integration.