Patna: Bihar’s government schools are undergoing a major transformation, aiming to make education more practical, creative, and empowering for students. In Patna district, girls are now learning martial arts and self-defense, not just from teachers but also from their peers who have become master trainers. This initiative, part of the Bihar Education Project Council’s Lakshmibai Self-Defense Training Scheme, is designed to give girls the confidence and skills to protect themselves while encouraging leadership among students.
Currently, 321 girls from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas have completed training and become master trainers. These girls are now responsible for teaching self-defense and martial arts to other students in their school and nearby government schools. Headmasters decide the timing of the training sessions so that they fit smoothly into the school routine. The training program is being expanded to high schools in the district, reaching girls from classes 9 to 12. Each student will complete 36 days of training, with sessions lasting two hours each, progressing through martial arts levels from white to black belt, with intermediate belts including yellow, orange, green, blue, and brown. In the first phase, around 1,300 girls will be trained, with plans to reach nearly 15,000 in the following phases.
At the same time, music education is getting a fresh start in Masaurhi block’s government schools. Students will no longer only listen to recorded music but will play instruments themselves during morning assemblies and special events. Schools are now equipped with harmoniums, tablas, dholaks, Casio keyboards, flutes, tambourines, cymbals, and ghungroos, thanks to funding from the Bihar Education Project Council. Children are also learning traditional songs and Bihari folk music, helping them connect with local culture while developing creativity and teamwork.
The state’s Education Department says that these initiatives are more than just extra activities. Martial arts and music help build self-confidence, discipline, and leadership skills. By combining academics with life skills, Bihar’s government schools are creating an environment where children can learn, grow, and discover their talents. Officials believe this approach will help students succeed not only in exams but also in life, preparing them to face challenges with courage and creativity.
