District Magistrate Savin Bansal’s ambitious Project Utkarsh to modernize government schools in Dehradun with smart technology and infrastructure is now taking shape on the ground. Under the project, remote-area schools in Chakrata and Kalsi were equipped with furniture by March 2025, as part of the 2024–25 financial year targets. Further work is now underway in the blocks of Vikasnagar, Sahaspur, Raipur, and Doiwala for the 2025–26 fiscal year, with ONGC having already issued work orders to supply furniture.
ONGC and HUDCO are key partners in this initiative. ONGC has committed ₹1.5 crore towards furniture and educational equipment, and has already furnished schools in Chakrata and Kalsi. HUDCO, meanwhile, is supporting the installation of LED smart screens and other digital learning tools worth ₹2.5 crore, with the total smart-classroom project reaching a value of ₹3.5 crore and now in its final phase.
District Magistrate Bansal’s vision is to empower students with modern learning tools to help them compete in a fast-evolving world. Plans include equipping classrooms with whiteboards, two LED lights per class, proper desks and benches, and outdoor sports facilities. ₹1 crore has been allocated to the Chief Education Officer for basic amenities and infrastructure, and funds have already been distributed to block education officers based on local needs.
In a unique step, students will also study the biographies of national icons to instill moral values and inspiration. Each school has been directed to maintain newspapers, magazines, dictionaries, and biographies of at least two great personalities to encourage reading and critical thinking.
Students will also gain exposure to global knowledge through comics, magazines, and newspapers, blending learning with fun. Emphasis is being laid on skill development alongside academics.
The administration has issued strict instructions to ensure proper lighting, drinking water, clean toilets, and repaired water tanks in all schools. Additionally, officials have been directed to ensure the supply of nutritious mid-day meals and improve basic hygiene and safety across campuses.
