On January 26, 2026, Maharashtra will conduct a mandatory ‘Nation-First’ drill across all schools. Over two crore students and seven lakh teachers will participate in patriotic song recitations and group exercises. The initiative, led by the state education department, aims to instill discipline, unity, fitness, and patriotism among young learners.
In a landmark move to deepen patriotic engagement, the Maharashtra government has announced that all schools in the state will conduct a mandatory ‘Nation-First’ drill on Republic Day, January 26, 2026. The programme, spearheaded by Education Commissioner Sachindra Pratap Singh and supported by School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse, will involve simultaneous participation across government, aided, and private institutions.
Key Highlights
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Mass Participation: More than two crore students from over one lakh schools, along with seven lakh teachers, are expected to take part.
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Patriotic Song Recitation: The drill will feature a 20-minute group exercise set to patriotic songs, based on a model video circulated by the education department.
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Mandatory Attendance: Schools will not be allowed to declare a holiday on Republic Day. 100% student attendance has been mandated, ensuring inclusivity and collective participation.
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Objectives: The initiative seeks to foster unity, discipline, physical fitness, and national pride among students, while also discouraging absenteeism on a day of national importance.
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Administrative Oversight: Officials have been instructed to complete preparations in advance and ensure smooth execution without inconvenience to students or teachers.
Why It Matters
Republic Day celebrations traditionally emphasize civic pride and national unity. By mandating this drill, Maharashtra is positioning schools as active agents of nation-building. The programme not only reinforces patriotic values but also integrates health awareness and discipline into the educational framework. For many students, this will be their first collective experience of such scale, potentially setting a precedent for future national observances.
Broader Implications
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Educational Impact: Embedding patriotism in school activities strengthens civic education and creates a shared cultural experience.
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Community Cohesion: The simultaneous drill across diverse schools highlights inclusivity, bridging linguistic and regional divides.
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Global Outreach: Officials have hinted at showcasing the drill’s scale internationally, positioning Maharashtra as a model for large-scale civic engagement.
Closing Note
This Republic Day, classrooms across Maharashtra will transform into arenas of collective patriotism. The ‘Nation-First’ drill is more than a symbolic gesture—it is a deliberate effort to weave discipline, unity, and national pride into the daily rhythm of education.
Sources: Hindustan Times, Mid-Day, Reuters India, Maharashtra School Education Department
