Education Ministry Makes Safety Audits in Schools Mandatory; Urges Immediate Action from States and UTs Following Rajasthan Tragedy
New Delhi, July 26: In the wake of a tragic school building collapse in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar district that claimed the lives of seven children and injured 28 others, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has issued a nationwide directive mandating all states and Union territories to conduct comprehensive safety audits in schools to safeguard the lives and well-being of students.
Officials confirmed on Saturday that the Education Ministry has taken serious note of the incident and emphasized the urgent need for a systematic evaluation of safety measures across educational institutions. The directive highlights the necessity for immediate and sustained efforts to assess and enhance safety infrastructure, structural stability, and emergency preparedness in both government and private schools.
“States and UTs must act swiftly to audit all school buildings and child-related facilities in accordance with national safety codes and guidelines,” a senior official from the Ministry stated. “This includes verifying structural integrity, fire safety compliance, the availability of emergency exits, the condition of electrical wiring, and other critical infrastructure that ensures a safe learning environment.”
In addition to physical safety checks, the ministry has underscored the importance of training both staff and students in emergency response techniques. Schools are expected to conduct regular evacuation drills, provide first-aid training, and establish clear safety protocols to manage crises such as fires, natural disasters, or building failures.
The directive also stresses the need for psychosocial support mechanisms, including counselling services and peer-support networks, to help children cope with trauma or distress resulting from emergencies. “Safety is not limited to physical structures alone—it must encompass emotional and psychological security as well,” the official added.
To ensure a coordinated and professional approach, the Ministry has recommended collaboration with local authorities and emergency services, such as the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), fire departments, police, and medical agencies, to facilitate periodic training sessions, mock drills, and joint audits.
The Ministry of Education has also called on school management bodies and district administrations to create safety response teams, maintain updated emergency contact directories, and ensure that school premises remain compliant with building codes and disaster management regulations.
