When a Classroom Door Reopened

I always believed that school was a sacred place. Traffic jams, unexpected rains, temperature hikes, and pending homework — nothing could stop us from waking up early and heading to school. So, when I heard about Anushree’s experience, it was a complete shocker to me. This was more than a news piece. It was a striking reminder of why education is important.

Anushree Janardan Gadekar was an 8th-class student, residing in Gourkheda, living with her maternal uncle and mother. She was officially enrolled in Kanya Vidyalaya, Rohna. However, she had been irregular from the beginning of the academic year. After the Diwali holidays, she had stopped going to school altogether. Even when she was invited to Kishori group meetings, she was irregular.

During her regular home visits, her mother told her that she had to do her household chores, as she was not keeping well and was occupied with agricultural work. The neighbors also said that most of the household chores had been taken up by Anushree. Gradually, school activities had moved out of her daily routine. Her books were sitting in a corner, piled up, collecting dust, and her days were filled with never-ending chores. She was already burdened with her family responsibilities.

National surveys show that children in India still face real challenges in staying in school. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–21) data, about 87.4% of children aged 6–17 years were attending school, but attendance dropped significantly in later adolescent years — especially among girls and in rural areas as 6.8 percent got married (males, 0.3 percent & females, 6.8 percent), 20.6 percent required to work outside for cash earning, 13.3 because of household work.

Rather than empty lectures or follow-ups, the method used with Anushree was straightforward and consistent. Each village visit began at their residence. This was the new normal. Discussions with the mother and maternal uncle began politely but consistently. All the necessary documents were filled out together. Through the Village Child Protection Committee, her registration under the Bal Sangopan (Child Support) Scheme was completed, and assistance was given to initiate the ration card process. Notably, one condition was explicitly stated: If Anushree fails to attend school regularly, she will forfeit all benefits derived from the support scheme. Anushree’s education was not optional. It was mandatory.

That helped. Her maternal uncle began tracking her attendance. Anushreestarted coming regularly — not only to classes, but also to Kishori meetings. She found her footing again with other children, learning and developing as every child should.

Education is a right, a foundation, and a bridge to a brighter future. And sometimes, to reclaim that right, only patience, support, expert guidance, and a clear line are needed that puts the classroom back in focus.

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