Inside Raksha Shakti School: Discipline, Fitness and Field Training

Gandhinagar, October 25: Set within the National Defence University campus at Lavad, Gandhinagar, Raksha Shakti School places strong emphasis on discipline, fitness, teamwork and physical training along with academic studies.

The residential institution is based on a public-private partnership (PPP) model and is operated under the Government of Gujarat. Students from Class 6 to Class 12 are enrolled here.

The day starts at five in the morning, according to student Ayush Parmar. Students get ready in about half an hour and then go for physical training, which includes exercises aimed at maintaining good health. After training, they return to the hostel, prepare for breakfast and then leave for school.

Student Smit Kumar Patel said physical training keeps young people fit and teaches them teamwork. Field work, she said, provides a real sense of different locations and offers useful information. During these experiences, students are encouraged to stay disciplined and cooperate with others.

The school also includes drill along with games like football and volleyball, which are aimed at supporting physical and mental growth.

Teacher Ritu explained that the school keeps a close watch on children's sporting activities from morning drill until evening. Football, volleyball, badminton and skating are conducted as part of this programme. She said sports help children develop in every aspect and prepare them for possible careers in defence services.

Raksha Shakti School was started by the Gujarat government on the model of a sainik school. It offers special training to children who aim for careers in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and state police forces.

Director B.R. Rao said that the school functions in much the same way as a military school. The main purpose, he said, is to train students effectively so they can be of help to central armed police and state police organisations.

From academic learning to competitive examinations, the school is shaping young people with discipline, physical capability and a sense of responsibility. It is also preparing them for future challenges and opening doors to opportunities in the security and defence fields.