Pithoragarh’s District Magistrate Ashish Kumar Bhatgai turned a routine school visit into a profound lesson in empathy and accountability. On April 10, he made an unannounced stop at PM Saraswati Devi Singh Rajkiya Inter College, where he thoroughly assessed teaching methods, student progress, and campus facilities.
Classrooms buzzed with interaction as the DM spoke to pupils about their studies, challenges, and amenities. Motivating them to pursue ambitions diligently, he also tasked educators with delivering superior instruction.
Extending his oversight to the PM Poshan mid-day meal initiative, Bhatgai inspected the cooking process, sanitation levels, and ingredient standards in the school kitchen. Breaking all protocol, he joined the children at their tables, eating the meal alongside them to experience it authentically.
The children’s enthusiastic approval of the food’s flavor and consistency pleased him, but he issued firm directives to staff: maintain unwavering excellence in nutrition and hygiene. Bhatgai stressed that nourishing schoolchildren is non-negotiable for the administration.
Calling for ongoing monitoring, he ensured every aspect aligns with national guidelines. Such immersive inspections highlight how leaders in Uttarakhand are bridging the gap between policy and practice, fostering trust and better outcomes for the next generation.
