3 days ago
On green mission, students become changemakers to tackle air pollution
New Delhi: What if the solution to the capital's air pollution crisis lies in its classrooms and college campuses? Through a recent circular, the directorate of education is engaging thousands of students in becoming changemakers for the environment.
"All deputy directors of education (district) are requested to disseminate information to all the heads of schools of govt, govt-aided and private unaided recognised schools under their jurisdiction in engaging youth (age 15 years and above) for awareness generation under National Clean Air Programme through the MY Bharat platform," the DoE circular reads.
School students are being mobilised to tackle one of the most pressing challenges of the city—air pollution.
From planting trees to leading street plays, they're becoming the voice behind cleaner air, one mission at a time.
According to the circular, "On two designated days each month, students from schools, colleges and eco-clubs will participate in themed awareness activities, experiential learning and community outreach events. Special mega-events will also be organised around occasions, such as World Environment Day (June 5), Swachh Vayu Diwas (Sept 7) and Zero Emission Day (Sept 21)."
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Each month comes with a unique environmental mission to make learning action-oriented. In May, youth ambassadors launched clean-up drives under the theme 'plastic-free public places', promoting the use of eco-friendly alternatives. June brings 'plant trees, breathe free', with students participating in plantation drives. July's focus is on 'reducing industrial emissions', where participants visit industries using clean technologies and advocate for cleaner fuels.
In Aug, the spotlight shifts to individuals making a difference under 'clean air heroes'. Street plays and public storytelling sessions honour everyday champions of clean air. Sept kicks off 'every breath matters', a week of awareness culminating in Swachh Vayu Diwas, complete with art installations, zero-emission pledges and city beautification efforts.
Oct urges citizens to 'burn calories, not fuel', encouraging walking, cycling and switching off engines at red lights.
Come Nov, schools and colleges host creative events like poster-making, essay competitions and short films under 'green living, better tomorrow'. Dec's mission is 'sustainable cities, healthier air', with activities focusing on green construction and urban planning.
The campaign wraps up with a strong winter push: 'say no to waste burning' in Jan, reduce, reuse, repurpose, recycle in Feb—featuring visits to recycling units and zero-waste fairs—and 'no more dust' in March, involving street cleaning and dust control drives.
Some Delhi govt schools have seamlessly integrated environmental consciousness into their daily routines. At Ravi Shankar SKV in Bawana, sustainability is not just a theme, it's a regular part of classroom sessions, morning assemblies and school-wide activities. "We promote sustainability through awareness drives, hands-on eco-activities and a green school ecosystem. From 'say no to plastic' and herbal gardens to rainwater harvesting and solar power, our students lead by example," said principal Sunita.
This nationwide movement is being implemented through the MY Bharat platform, launched by the Union youth affairs and sports ministry to empower the youth of India. Now, in partnership with the environment ministry, this platform will drive year-long environmental awareness campaigns in 130 targeted cities.
"If we want lasting change in the air we breathe, we must start with those who will inherit it. By turning classrooms into hubs of climate action, we're empowering students to become clean air warriors—aware, active and accountable for shaping a healthier, more sustainable future for all," said a Delhi govt school teacher.
This initiative isn't just about awareness—it's about ownership. By engaging youth in hands-on, real-world experiences, it is creating a generation that not only breathes cleaner air but knows how to fight for it.
