Schoolchildren Test Water Quality in 2,662 Himachal Schools Under Water and Climate Conservation Drive
Shimla: Water testing in Himachal Pradesh schools is taking science beyond textbooks, with students in 2,662 schools testing the quality of water from local sources three times a year.
The initiative is being implemented under the ‘Water and Climate Conservation Campaign’ launched by Samagra Shiksha, Himachal Pradesh, to promote awareness about water quality, conservation and climate protection among students.
Samagra Shiksha has provided Field Testing Kits (FTKs) to all 2,662 participating schools, while one teacher from each school has been trained in drinking water quality assessment and the use of the kits. The testing results are shared with the Jal Shakti Department and concerned Sub-Divisional Magistrates, enabling necessary action wherever required.
Samagra Shiksha Director Rajesh Sharma said the initiative is aimed not only at teaching students how to test water but also at developing a sense of responsibility towards water, the environment and climate. He said hands-on testing allows students to connect scientific concepts with real-life situations and is aligned with the experiential and skill-based learning approach of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Students and teachers are also participating in the study, conservation and rejuvenation of local water sources through volunteer groups, with support from environmental organisations.
Schools are additionally organising ‘Water Festivals’ twice a year, involving Panchayati Raj institutions, the Health Department and other stakeholders. Poster-making, essay writing and debate competitions on water conservation are also being conducted to deepen students’ engagement with the campaign.
The initiative is helping turn students into active participants in science learning while nurturing environmentally conscious and responsible citizens.
Samagra Sikhsha
