The Ministry of Education has asked all states and Union Territories to conduct urgent safety audits of school buildings and student facilities, following the tragic collapse of a school structure in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar district that killed seven children and injured 28.
The directive, issued on Saturday, July 26, calls for thorough checks of the structural condition of school buildings, fire safety, emergency exits, and electrical systems.
Schools have also been told to ensure that both staff and students are trained in emergency protocols.
“States and UTs must take immediate steps to ensure student safety,” a senior ministry official said. “This includes audits as per national safety codes, training for emergencies, and systems for psychological support.”
The ministry has also stressed the need for collaboration with local authorities such as the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), fire departments, police, and medical teams.
Schools have been advised to organise regular mock drills and training sessions with these agencies.
The tragic incident in Jhalawar occurred on Friday when a section of a government school building collapsed during school hours. Most of the victims were under the age of ten.
While an investigation is underway, the Centre’s directive reflects growing concern over ageing infrastructure and gaps in safety protocols in schools across India.
In addition to physical checks, the ministry has called for more attention to mental health.
Counselling, peer support, and student-friendly systems have been recommended to help children deal with distress and emotional strain, particularly in the aftermath of any traumatic event.
The directive also introduces a 24-hour reporting rule.
Any incident that endangers children or youth, or any near-miss involving safety risks, must be reported to the designated state or UT authority within a day. Failure to report or act on safety issues will invite strict accountability measures.
Community participation has been encouraged. The ministry has appealed to parents, guardians, and local leaders to report unsafe buildings, playgrounds, or even unsafe transport used by children.
Education departments and school boards have been urged to act promptly and ensure the safety audit guidelines are implemented without delay.
The move is part of a wider attempt to tighten oversight of school safety in the wake of avoidable tragedies. A central review of compliance across states is also expected in the coming weeks.
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