Pune: After a long summer break, schools across Maharashtra reopen today, with the first day of the new academic year expected to be filled with excitement as students return to classrooms.On Sunday, school staffers prepared to welcome the children with flowers, chocolates and decorations. Some schools are also planning puppet shows and fun activities to make children feel comfortable and to create a friendly school environment.Management committee member of a school in Yerawada, Ashok Kale, said, “Our staff has organised puppet shows and fun activities to ensure children are excited about returning to school. We will greet our students with roses, sweets, chocolates and pens, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere.”This year, the state govt has launched a special initiative to make the first day of the academic year memorable.Ministers, local politicians and education officers will visit schools located in their constituencies to greet students and encourage a joyful start to the year. In govt schools, free textbooks and uniforms will be distributed.Education officer Shriram Panzade said the purpose of this large-scale engagement is not just symbolic. “Officials will also review facilities in schools, interact with teachers, students and parents, and evaluate the readiness and quality of school infrastructure. They aim to boost student attendance from the first day, improve the learning environment and promote community participation in education,” Panzade said.Parents, too, excitedly purchased new uniforms, tiffins, raincoats and bags for children. While many girls chose butterfly-shaped school bags, boys preferred Doraemon designs.Reshma Lalani, a parent, said, “We started preparation for school one week ago. We bought a new school bag and uniform for my son. It is a new academic year, and although it comes every year, my son is excited.”This year, the drop in prices of school supplies, such as bags, notebooks and raincoats, has brought cheer to parents.Krishna Agarwal, a trader at Appa Balwant Chowk, said, “A school bag that earlier cost Rs 1,200 is now available for Rs 800 to Rs 1,000. Notebooks are 20% cheaper, and raincoat prices have stabilised. Indian-made products are easily available at lower prices, owing to increased local production.”Some shops even offered discounts and even free items with purchases to compete with online stores.As schools open their gates with smiles, colours and positive energy, students, teachers, and parents are set to begin the new academic year with hope and happiness.
