Gujarat’s ‘No School Bag Saturday’ Sees Low Response in Major Cities
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Gujarat’s “No School Bag Saturday” initiative, launched on July 5 for Classes 1–8 under NEP 2020, aimed to reduce academic pressure and foster creativity through yoga, sports, art, and cultural activities—but ground response in major cities was half-hearted.
In Ahmedabad, flagship institutions such as Kendriya Vidyalaya (Shahibaug), Rajasthan School, and Swaminarayan Gurukul simply ignored the mandate: students arrived with their weekly school bags, signifying a disconnect between policy and practice.
Surat witnessed mixed results. Radiant International School postponed implementation, citing planning delays, and committed to an alternate rollout timeline. Conversely, Vidya Bharati School in Bhattar welcomed “Bagless Saturday”: children left behind textbooks, carried essentials only, and spent the day joyfully engaged in painting, games, and yoga—a beacon of what the initiative envisions.
Experts have long warned of the health risks posed by heavy backpacks: pediatric orthopedic specialist Dr Nilesh Raval cautioned that excessive load between ages 4–12 can cause spinal deformities, posture issues, and early disc degeneration. Educational consultant Reema Shah backed the initiative too, describing it as a transformative opportunity to shift focus from rote learning to creative and emotional development—but criticised the lack of enforcement and planning in schools.
The lukewarm rollout reflects gaps in official communication and accountability. Many principals reported the absence of a formal circular detailing the programme structure. Parents, unsure of protocol, packed bags “just in case.” Activists argue that without structured guidelines, monitoring, and clear accountability, the initiative risks becoming another unimplemented directive.
To ensure meaningful change, education authorities must promptly issue detailed timetables, monitor implementation, and support schools in adapting. Only then can “No School Bag Saturday” progress from a well-intentioned policy to an impactful reality—in reducing stress and nurturing well-rounded young minds.
