Pune: Over 12,000 girls from 476 schools in Pune were trained in self-defence under a state-led campaign held at Sir Parashurambhau College grounds on Sunday. School education minister Dada Bhuse said govt plans to set up pink rooms in schools as dedicated spaces for girls’ safety, health support and counselling.
He said that self-defence is a core life skill that builds confidence and discipline, and similar initiatives would continue. The one-day training was conducted by Shifuji Shaurya Bhardwaj’s team and organised by SCERT along with district education authorities. The students learned protective techniques and situational awareness.
The pink rooms are expected to provide basic medical support, sanitary facilities, counselling and a secure environment where girls can address health or safety concerns during school hours.
“Self-defence is a discipline that builds confidence and prepares girls to be independent. When she is capable of protecting herself, her morale rises and that discipline reflects in every aspect of life,” he added.
Bhuse referred to a nationwide initiative on Jan 26. “More than two crore girls participated simultaneously in a patriotic drill, setting a new record. Such efforts instil unity, confidence and a sense of national responsibility,” he said. He added that military-style training modules in schools would help reinforce values of discipline and national service.
The event was attended by mayor Manjusha Nagpure, Kasba Peth MLA Hemant Rasane and State Council of Educational Research and Training Director Hemant Vasekar, along with other officials from the education department. Officials said efforts to integrate safety training into the school system will continue.
