Khargone Teacher's Emotional Return After Students' 35km March
In a heartwarming display of student-teacher bond, mathematics educator Natwar Patidar walked back into Govt Sandipani Primary School in Segaon, Khargone, to an overwhelming reception. Children who were having their midday meals immediately left their plates behind and rushed to embrace their beloved teacher, creating a scene of pure emotional connection.
The Protest That Made a Difference
Patidar had been transferred from the school but was reinstated after more than 200 students and their parents organized a remarkable march, demanding his return. The protest secured a promise from the district administration on Wednesday, leading to the cancellation of his transfer order and allowing him to rejoin his original school on Thursday.
"The decision by students and their guardians to march nearly 35 km to Khargone district headquarters on January 28 to meet the Collector was completely spontaneous," Patidar expressed with visible surprise at the scale of the protest that secured his return.
He explained that in compliance with the government's attachment order, he had already joined his new posting at Dasanwal. However, after the strong reaction from students and parents, the administration reviewed the matter thoroughly and revoked the order, recognizing the teacher's significant contribution to the institution.
Beyond Conventional Teaching Methods
Patidar's impact on the school extends far beyond conventional teaching approaches. During his posting at Sandipani School, he conducted special motivational classes for academically weaker students and prepared students for entrance to Navodaya Vidyalaya, the prestigious central government school system known for its quality education.
"I used to take free additional classes at home from 6 pm to 8 pm after school hours," he revealed, demonstrating his dedication to student success beyond regular working hours.
Innovative Approaches to Building Trust
The teacher implemented several innovative strategies to build trust in the government institution. One particularly effective method involved enrolling children from his own family at Sandipani School, which had a strong impact on parents and helped build confidence in the government school system. He also leveraged social media platforms effectively to promote the school and increase student enrollment through digital outreach.
Remarkable Academic Outcomes
The results of his dedicated efforts are reflected in impressive academic outcomes throughout the school. "Even KG-2 students at the school are able to read Hindi," Patidar noted proudly, crediting the positive academic environment to several key factors:
- Strong cooperation among school staff members
- Maintenance of a disciplined learning atmosphere
- Continuous enthusiasm among parents regarding their children's future
Dramatic Enrollment Growth
Perhaps the most striking indicator of Patidar's impact is the dramatic rise in student enrollment during his tenure. He initially carried out extensive door-to-door outreach campaigns, which led to a significant increase in student numbers. The enrollment data reveals an extraordinary growth pattern:
- 54 students in the 2023–24 academic session
- 218 students in the following session (more than fourfold increase)
- 230 students in the 2024–25 session
- 246 students in the current 2025–26 session (355% increase from baseline)
The target for the 2026–27 academic session is to cross 300 students, according to Patidar. To achieve this ambitious goal, lists of children aged 4 years and above were obtained from nearby Anganwadi centres, and their parents were contacted systematically to encourage enrollment in the government school.
The emotional reunion between teacher and students, followed by the detailed account of his educational initiatives, paints a compelling picture of how dedicated educators can transform government schools and create lasting bonds with their communities through innovative teaching methods and genuine commitment to student welfare.
