‘Close to the Independence Day, I got a chance to meet the Defence Minister of India’

It was a memorable day for class 8 student, Chhavi, as she visited the Ministry of Defence. She carried about 500-600 hand-made ‘rakhis’ by students of her school to be given to the Defence Minister of India, Shri Rajnath Singh. She, along with her schoolmates and friends, started making these ‘rakhis’ a week prior to this meeting. Their efforts and enthusiasm nearly doubled when they learnt that Chhavi would go for an in-person meeting with the Minister.  

A multi-talented student, Chhavi is soon to represent India in Thailand at a three-day International Yoga competition. When asked about how she plans to contribute to the nation this Independence Day, she says, “In the academic session 2022, I am putting in extra efforts for my studies and extra-curriculars. I am also nurturing all my hobbies including art and dance.”

Winning many accolades for her school in zonal, state and inter-school competitions, Chhavi’s inspiration to start learning yoga came from her mother. She further credits her school teacher, Mr. Pradeep Pandey who encouraged her to master the discipline. In future, Chhavi plans to make India proud and spread awareness about yoga at International platforms. Sharing a message with fellow citizens, she says, “Respect every person you meet because each one of us is contributing to the country in some manner.”

Ms. Neena Kaushik, an Economics teacher at Apeejay School, Saket and Interact Club co-in charge of the school accompanied Chhavi. She mentioned how the Minister was keenly taking note of each and every contribution that came from students. She says, “Rajnath Singh ji was very thorough and detail-oriented. On the occasion, Indian lyricist, Manoj Muntashir who has written of the popular song, ‘Teri Mitti’ was present as well. They also gave me a chance to sing a few lines from the song to pay tribute to our martyrs.”

Adding how the school has commenced week-long celebrations of Independence Day, including a host of programmes, such as special assemblies, role plays, online quizzes and singing of patriotic songs, etc. she says, “In each class of the school, there is a spirit and fervour of patriotism. We collected rakhis from students across the school and the simple act represents the feeling of appreciation and deep gratitude. The students have ensured to make ‘rakhis’ using eco-friendly materials.”

According to news reports, Rajnath Singh ji has stated at an event that these rakhis will be provided to the three service chiefs by him. They will be further distributed to the jawans of all three services, i.e. Army, Air Force and Navy.   

“The gesture is to show how we citizens are thankful to the Indian soldiers. As we are completing 75 years of India’s Independence, we must promote our indigenous industries. I encourage my students to adopt a country-first approach be it any line of work. My message to students is to lend a hand, be it home, neighbourhood, school or community. Your small help can create a big change,” says Ms. Kaushik.