20. Neelakurinji Trek initiative and Nilgiri Tahr Project
Ministry or Nodal Agency:
- Tamil Nadu government, led by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.
Aim:
- The Neelakurinji Trek initiative aims to protect the endangered mountain flowers of Tamil Nadu, specifically Neelakurinji, through awareness promotion about its population, habitat, and environmental conservation.
Beneficiary:
- The initiative benefits the biodiversity of Tamil Nadu, particularly focusing on the conservation and management of Neelakurinji, a symbol of resilience against climate change.
Eligibility:
- Open to all residents and stakeholders interested in environmental conservation and biodiversity protection in Tamil Nadu. Specifically targets those involved in forestry, environmental research, and public awareness campaigns.
Neelakiri varaiyadu project (Nilgiri Thar)
Nodal Agency:
- Tamil Nadu Forest Department
Project Aim:
- The Neelakiri varaiyadu project aims to conserve and promote the environmental significance of Neelakiri varaiyadu, focusing on its conservation, distribution, and biodiversity importance in Tamil Nadu.
Target Beneficiaries:
- The project aims to benefit the ecological and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu by reviving historical habitats, conserving local biodiversity, and promoting awareness about Neelakiri varaiyadu.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Open to researchers, conservationists, and stakeholders involved in biodiversity conservation and environmental protection in Tamil Nadu.
21. School-Home Library Scheme
Launched On:
- The "School-Home Library Scheme" was introduced on August, 2022.
Responsible Ministry or Nodal Agency:
Aim:
- The aim of the school-Home Library Scheme is to enhance the reading, learning, writing, speaking, drawing, and play-acting skills of students in primary, middle, high, and higher secondary schools under the Chennai Corporation.
Beneficiary:
- Students in the 281 schools operating under the Chennai Corporation, which includes primary, middle, high, and higher secondary schools.
Eligibility:
- Open to all students enrolled in the schools under the Chennai Corporation.
22. Namma Ooru Namma Palli Scheme (Our School Our Village School Scheme)
Launched On:
Responsible Ministry or Nodal Agency:
- Tamil Nadu School Education Department
Aim:
- The Namma School Namma Ooru Palli (Our School Our Village School) scheme aims to improve the quality and infrastructure of schools in Tamil Nadu with contributions from various sectors, including large, small, and medium-sized enterprises, NGOs, and the general public.
Beneficiary:
- The scheme benefits the 37,558 schools in Tamil Nadu, enhancing their infrastructure and educational resources.
Eligibility:
- Open to large, small, and medium-sized enterprises, non-governmental organizations, and the general public who wish to contribute financially, with materials, or through volunteer services.
Additional Information:
- A dedicated website for the scheme: https://nammaschool.tnschools.gov.in/.
Various initiatives under the School Education Department are detailed, including:
- Illam Thedi Kalvi (Education at Doorstep)
- Chief Minister's Breakfast Scheme
- Ennum Ezhuthum (Numeracy and Literacy)
- Vanavil Mandram (Rainbow Club)
- Naan Mudhalvan (I am the Leader)
- School Management Committees
- Manarkeni (Student Guidance)
- Vocational Education Development
- Teacher Skill Development
- Alumni Coordination Scheme
- Perasiriyar Anbazhagan School Development Scheme
- Student Councils
- A dedicated bank account has been created to manage contributions.
- The SMC Parent App (SMC – School Management Committee) is operational for listing the infrastructure and other needs of government schools.
23. MANAM Thittam
Launched On
Responsible Ministry or Nodal Agency:
- National Health Mission - Tamil Nadu
Aim:
- The primary objective of the MANAM Thittam program is to promote the mental health and wellbeing of students through awareness generation activities, training, and wellbeing programs for teachers and students on mental health promotion and wellbeing.
Beneficiary:
- Students in schools and colleges across Tamil Nadu.
Eligibility:
- Open to all students and teachers in schools and colleges across Tamil Nadu.
Additional Information:
- Mana Nala Nallaatharavu Mandram (Students Mind Health Support Forum) was inaugurated in all medical colleges across Tamil Nadu and expanded to all colleges and schools.
- Members of these forums act as Peer Support Groups, offering Psychological First Aid to students in distress and guiding them for further care and support.
- Services are linked to "Natpudan Ungalodu Mananala Sevai" Tele-consultation services and District Mental Health Program (DMHP) Clinics.
- A training module for teachers on students' mental health promotion and wellbeing was released by the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu as part of MANAM Thittam to provide training to school teachers.
24. Vizhuthugal initiative
Ministry or Nodal Agency:
- School Education Department, Government of Tamil Nadu
Aim:
- The aim of the 'Vizhuthugal' initiative is to enhance and uplift government schools in Tamil Nadu.
Beneficiary:
- Former students of Tamil Nadu government schools who are now successful professionals across the globe.
Eligibility:
- Former students of Tamil Nadu government schools.
Additional Information:
- The initiative encourages societal participation in the improvement of government schools and aims to create a model for educational enhancement supported by former students who have excelled in various fields.
- The initiative was officially launched at an event held in Chennai, attended by notable figures including government officials and educational leaders.
- The initiative underscores the role of education in shaping individuals and communities, emphasizing the collective responsibility to support and nurture the schools that contributed to their success.
25. 'Namma School Foundation'
Ministry/Department:
- Tamil Nadu Department of School Education
Nodal Agency:
- 'Namma School Foundation'
Aim:
- The aim of the 'Namma School Foundation' initiative is to fully refurbish government schools across Tamil Nadu in collaboration with private organizations and individuals.
- This includes upgrading infrastructure such as fencing, painting, internet connectivity, hygienic toilets, research facilities, and libraries.
Beneficiaries:
Primary Beneficiaries:
- Government schools across Tamil Nadu
Secondary Beneficiaries:
- Former students now in high positions, professionals, socially conscious organizations, and corporate entities contributing funds
Eligibility:
- Former students who are now professionals or hold high positions in organizations.
- Socially conscious organizations and corporate entities interested in contributing to social responsibility efforts.
26. Vanavil Mandram project
Initiative Name:
Ministry or Nodal Agency:
- Department of School Education, Government of Tamil Nadu
Aim:
Foster scientific curiosity and mathematical skills among government school students:
- The Sky Classroom initiative aims to cultivate a deeper interest in science and mathematics among students studying in government schools across Tamil Nadu.
- By integrating interactive and hands-on learning experiences, the initiative seeks to spark curiosity and encourage students to explore scientific concepts and mathematical principles in practical ways.
Encourage exploration and questioning:
- Through the Sky Classroom initiative, students are encouraged to ask questions and actively engage in scientific inquiry.
- The program promotes a learning environment where students can experiment, observe, and analyze scientific phenomena, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Develop a passion for science and mathematics:
- One of the primary goals of the initiative is to nurture a passion for science and mathematics from an early age.
- By providing access to state-of-the-art scientific equipment and resources, the initiative aims to inspire students to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields and contribute to India's scientific advancement.
Beneficiary:
Government school students in Tamil Nadu:
- The initiative primarily targets students enrolled in grades 6 to 8 across government schools in Tamil Nadu.
- By focusing on this demographic, the initiative aims to reach a large number of students and make a significant impact on their educational journey.
Eligibility:
Students from grades 6 to 8 in government schools:
- All students enrolled in government schools within Tamil Nadu who are in grades 6 to 8 are eligible to participate in the Sky Classroom initiative.
- The program aims to provide equal opportunities for learning and skill development among all eligible students, irrespective of their background or socioeconomic status.
Additional Information:
- The Sky Classroom initiative has received substantial support with a funding allocation of Rs. 25 crores.
- This financial backing enables the initiative to equip participating schools with advanced scientific instruments, educational materials, and infrastructure necessary to conduct interactive learning sessions effectively.
- The initiative not only focuses on theoretical knowledge but also emphasizes practical applications and hands-on learning experiences.
- By integrating these elements into the curriculum, the initiative aims to create a holistic learning environment that nurtures the intellectual and academic growth of students.
- Implemented across government schools in Tamil Nadu, the Sky Classroom initiative is designed to complement existing educational programs and enhance the overall quality of science and mathematics education in the state.
- Through partnerships with educators and stakeholders, the initiative strives to achieve sustainable outcomes and long-term benefits for students and the education sector.
- This detailed elaboration provides a comprehensive overview of the Sky Classroom initiative, highlighting its objectives, target audience, eligibility criteria, and the broader impact it aims to achieve in the field of science and mathematics education in Tamil Nadu.
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