Chandigarh: A day after concerns were raised about conducting in-person language camps during peak summer, the education department has directed schools to halt physical sessions of the Bharatiya Bhasha Summer Camp (BBSC). However, several government schools still held classes on Monday, with principals stating that future activities will shift online.
Background of the Camp
The BBSC-2026, part of the Union education ministry's multilingual initiative under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, had commenced as a week-long, in-person programme featuring nearly two hours of daily activities. The decision drew criticism as schools had already been closed since May 23 due to extreme heatwave conditions, with authorities citing risks to students' health.
Department's Instructions
Sources revealed that the education department communicated to schools that physical camps should not continue following concerns over students being called to campus amidst soaring temperatures. Despite this directive, some schools conducted sessions on Monday, with students attending for limited hours before the official clarity emerged.
Principals' Responses
Principals stated that they have now received instructions to transition to online mode if the programme continues. “We have been told not to continue physically. If needed, it will be conducted online,” said a school head. Another principal noted that Monday's session had already been completed before the revised message reached them. “Students attended for about two hours, but we will avoid physical attendance going forward,” the official added.
Programme Details
Originally designed as a 28-hour programme spread over seven days, the camp focuses on conversational learning, storytelling, songs, and cultural activities in Indian languages. The shift to online mode aims to ensure student safety while continuing the educational objectives under NEP 2020.
