The programme marked the beginning of the 16-Day Campaign and aimed to orient both youth and their parents about its purpose. It also sought to develop a deeper understanding among participants regarding the violence and discrimination faced by women in society.

As part of the session, Asian Bridge India’s video “Meri Raatein Meri Sadke” was screened to raise awareness about different forms of violence. Participants gained clarity on various types of violence—physical, mental and emotional, economic, and sexual. The video further helped them understand the everyday challenges and violence experienced by women, encouraging meaningful reflection and dialogue.

At Varanasi Ashram School, every Saturday is a bag-free day. While Uttar Pradesh currently requires at least 10 activity-based “bagless days” per year in line with NEP 2020, schools are free to go beyond this minimum. Our weekly practice supports the same goals: joyful, hands-on learning and meaningful experiences for children.

NEP 2020 encourages schools to offer regular opportunities for experiential learning and enrichment activities (NEP 2020, §4.26). Making Saturdays bag-free gives our younger students more room to explore, create, and learn with all their senses.

This Saturday, a group of interested students, guided by a knowledgeable teacher, began preparing a new khet on the school grounds. Together they loosened the soil, removed stones, and planned the space for growing vegetables — learning teamwork, observation, and patience along the way.

Grade 2 students from Varanasi Ashram School explored a toy shop in Baragaon last week —asking prices, comparing options, and discovering what is available in their local market.
Through this simple outing, children practiced real-life math, communication, and decision-making skills.

Experiences like this reflect the spirit of NEP 2020, which encourages joyful, hands-on learning and connects classroom concepts with the world around the child.

The session marked another step in ABI’s continued commitment to gender justice and adolescent empowerment. By understanding where the girls stand today, ABI aims to build tailored and effective programs for their holistic development. This effort contributes to raising awareness, building confidence, and ensuring a brighter future for young girls in the community. Change is possible — and your participation makes it stronger.

This initiative, under the theme of Gender Justice, aims to develop leadership skills among young people and encourage their active participation in social change. The newly formed group is envisioned as a platform for dialogue, action, and advocacy, contributing to inclusive and sustainable development. Asian Bridge India extends its best wishes to the new group and stands with them in building a brighter, more equitable future.

The message was clear: “Sport has no gender — equal opportunity is everyone’s right.” Through this initiative, ABI sought to raise awareness about gender-based inequality in recreational spaces and to create a culture where sports are inclusive, empowering, and accessible to all. With the belief that change begins with awareness, Asian Bridge India remains committed to creating platforms that awaken minds and inspire action.