Attendees: 200+ stakeholders—principals, teachers, lecturers, officials, and community leaders
Geeta Khanna Leads a Transformative Dialogue on Exam Culture
The SCERT State Auditorium in Dehradun witnessed a vibrant confluence of thought leaders, educators, and child rights advocates during Pariksha Parv 7.0. At the helm of this celebration was Ms. Geeta Khanna, President, State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR), Uttarakhand, who passionately led discussions on reforming how exams are perceived and experienced by children.
In her keynote, Ms. Khanna highlighted:
“Our children are not mere marks-producing machines—they are creative, sensitive individuals. Let’s make exams a space for expression, not suppression.”
There is a need for legal literacy among educators to ensure that school policies align with child protection laws such as POCSO and JJ Act.
We are promoting digital awareness and encouraging teachers to help students build healthy online habits in an increasingly tech-centric world.
Her insights were instrumental in connecting the legal framework to daily classroom realities.
At the request of Anchor Lecturer Sunil Bhatt from SCERT, she provided detailed information on Section 32 of the RTE Act, outlining significant reforms anticipated by May 2025. She emphasized the importance of community engagement, joyful learning, and responsible parenting as the cornerstones of academic well-being.
Distinguished Participation
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Mr. S. K. Barnwal, Secretary, SCPCR Uttarakhand, welcomed the shift toward child-sensitive education and reiterated SCPCR’s role in safeguarding children's rights across the state.
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Dr. S. K. Singh, Deputy Secretary, SCPCR Uttarakhand, emphasized emotional safety and the role of institutions in nurturing student confidence and dignity.
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Ms. Hemlata Gaur, BEO Raipur (Dehradun), extended heartfelt thanks to guests and educators for creating nurturing academic environments.
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Dr. K. N. Bijalwan, Assistant Director, SCERT, spoke about aligning examinations with the curriculum and commended Uttarakhand’s stellar participation in Pariksha Pe Charcha, with over 4 lakh students involved.
Anchoring and Educational Insights by Sunil Bhatt
The event was skillfully anchored by Mr. Sunil Bhatt, whose engaging moderation kept the event cohesive and impactful. He also spoke on:
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The upcoming influence of Section 32 of the RTE Act in resolving child grievances in schools is a topic of interest.
Powerful Presentations by Educators
Ms. Teena (lecturer, DIET Dehradun) shared reflections from students’ diaries, capturing the emotional rollercoaster of exam time: anxiety, irritability, frustration, and peer support.
Ms. Priya Gusain (Lecturer, SCERT Uttarakhand) focused on the physiological impact of stress and advocated for:
- Deep breathing
- Physical movement
- Sleep, hydration, and nutrition
- Integrating emotional awareness in the curriculum
Key Thematic Areas
1. Exams as a Celebration
Hon'ble PM Modi's vision inspired stakeholders to approach exams with enthusiasm, not fear, and to celebrate learning rather than stress performance.
2. Legal and Emotional Safety
Speakers discussed RTE, POCSO, and JJ Acts, advocating for safe and emotionally secure schools.
3. Digital Discipline and Behavior
Digital responsibility was emphasized—students must be guided to navigate the internet ethically and responsibly.
4. Family and Community Role
Strong calls were made for:
- Increased parental involvement
- Monitoring of screen time
- Promoting respectful behavior and emotional bonding at home
5. Curriculum Rooted in National Identity
The speakers emphasized that:
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Medium of instruction should preserve Indian cultural values
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Curriculum should reflect national pride and global relevance
Symbolic Moments and Reflections
Memento Presentation
DEO, P. L. Bharati presented a memento to Ms. Geeta Khanna in recognition of her inspiring leadership and child rights advocacy.
Vote of Thanks
Dr. Bijalwan offered a warm vote of thanks, expressing appreciation:
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The leadership of Ms. Geeta Khanna
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Contributions of all dignitaries and educators
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The Tech Team and IT Department of SCERT for their behind-the-scenes support, ensuring flawless technical execution of the event
Remarks from DEO P. L. Bharti
He reiterated the necessity for strict compliance with RTE provisions by all private schools, marking it essential for equitable education.
Conclusion: A Turning Point in Assessment Culture
Pariksha Parv 7.0 wasn’t just an event—it was a movement for empathetic, legally aligned, and emotionally aware education.
- It honored student voices, especially those burdened by academic pressure
- It advocated for legal compliance and child safety
- It highlighted teachers' and parents' roles in emotional nurturing
- It aimed to restore joy and purpose in examinations
“Let our schools be havens of compassion and celebration. Let’s give our children not just education, but hope, courage, and happiness.”
