Hello,
Three years ago, the Union government allowed private players to run Sainik Schools, a chain of schools that come under the Ministry of Defence. This was done hoping to bolster the recruitment pool of armed forces.
This initiative, however, introduced a paradigm shift in the prestigious Sainik School education system, allowing “ideologically slanted” organisations to take on the baton of nurturing cadets – who in future will contribute to India’s defence forces.
Our investigation reveals a concerning trend surrounding the selection and ownership of these schools. Amid a lack of specific eligibility criteria, our findings indicate, that nearly two-thirds of the 40 Sainik School agreements awarded so far are linked to various political entities, including Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and its allied organizations, BJP politicians, and Hindutva groups, among others.
This revelation raises questions about the influence of political players and right-wing institutions within the military ecosystem. Entangling education with political interests in the running of Sainik Schools has sparked concerns about the integrity and character of these new schools approved.
To find out who will be running these new schools and their affinity to the power corridors of the country, read this story by The Collective’s associate member, Astha Savyasachi.
Click here to read the report on The Reporters' Collective website.