The article is written by Soumyashree Mohanty, Research Associate, CYDA, Vikas Mhaske, Program Manager, CYDA
In 2023, the first-ever National Accreditation Survey of Ashramshalas (Tribal Residential Schools) was carried out by the National Accreditation Board for Education and Training (NABET) under the Quality Council of India (QCI). This initiative, led by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA), aimed to assess the quality of tribal residential schools across India, many of which serve as the only learning and living space for marginalized tribal children.
The pilot phase of the survey covered 300 schools out of more than 10,000 Ashramshalas in five states: Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh. The schools were evaluated in six key areas, including infrastructure, safety, hygiene, and the availability of teaching and non-teaching staff.
The findings were deeply concerning. The survey revealed widespread gaps in basic facilities, with many schools having poor sanitation, unsafe or no access to drinking water, and inadequate medical services. Most schools lacked libraries, computer labs, or sports infrastructure—severely limiting students’ development. Children were deprived of quality education and a clean, secure, and encouraging environment to grow. While some states, like Odisha and Chhattisgarh, showed comparatively better performance, others lagged behind.
Maharashtra: The Challenges on Ground
In Maharashtra, the situation was particularly alarming:
- 57% of schools lacked benches and chairs, forcing students to sit on the floor.
- Nearly half the toilets were unusable, and many schools had no separate toilets for girls.
- More than 50% of buildings were in need of major repairs.
- Most schools lacked libraries, computer labs, and sports facilities.
These findings clearly highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure and well-being-focused interventions in tribal schools across the state.
A New Beginning at Shree Swami Samarth Balakashram
In response to these challenges, Shree Swami Samarth Balakashram in Mukundwadi, Maharashtra, was selected for transformation through the Navkiran Project, a joint initiative by CIE India and CYDA. The project aimed to create a healthy, safe, and nurturing environment for the children by focusing on critical improvements in infrastructure, hygiene, and education.
Clean and Dignified Sanitation
Prior to the intervention, the Ashramshala had dysfunctional toilets and no dedicated handwashing facilities. Through the Navkiran Project, the entire washroom facility was renovated with anti-skid tiles, better plumbing, and partitions that ensured privacy and hygiene. A new handwashing station with child-friendly taps and a consistent water supply was installed, encouraging children to practice proper hygiene regularly. To further support their well-being, a drinking water station with an RO filtration system was added, giving students access to clean and safe water at all times.
A Safer Kitchen and Dining Space
The kitchen and dining areas were in poor condition and lacked basic hygiene. These spaces were upgraded with new floors, improved ventilation, modern kitchen platforms, and clean water connections. This transformation has led to safer food preparation and healthier meal experiences for the children.
Powering the Campus with Solar Energy
One of the most impactful changes was the installation of a 5 kW on-grid solar power system, allowing the Ashramshala to reduce its reliance on traditional electricity. This system, which includes high-quality solar panels and an efficient inverter, now ensures a consistent power supply while promoting eco-friendly practices. This move towards renewable energy not only benefits the environment but also helps save on recurring energy costs.
“Earlier, we were spending between Rs3,700 and Rs4,850 every month on electricity. It was hard to manage, especially with the number of children we care for. After installing the solar system under the Navkiran Project, our bills have come down to just Rs100–Rs150 a month. We now save around Rs58,200 each year. These savings will be used for the children’s nutrition, education, and healthcare.
More than just the savings, this shift to green energy has made our Ashram a role model for other institutions.” Mr. Dhondiram Kakade, the Superintendent of the Ashramshala.
Creating a Supportive Learning Environment
To enhance the children’s overall experience, the Ashramshala was provided with essential furniture, school supplies, sports kits, computers, fans, lighting, and kitchen utensils. These additions have made classrooms more functional, meals more organized, and the day-to-day living environment more comfortable for students and staff.
Building Strength through Outdoor Fitness
A child-friendly outdoor gym was also introduced, giving children access to fun, safe equipment to exercise and stay active. This addition has helped promote physical fitness, discipline, and an understanding of healthy lifestyles from a young age.
Learning Healthy Habits through Hygiene Education
In addition to infrastructure development, the project introduced sessions on Behavioral Change Communication (BCC). Children were taught the importance of hygiene through practical lessons on brushing, bathing, handwashing, and keeping their environment clean. These sessions have helped shape lasting habits and improved the overall cleanliness of the campus.
Measurable Impact
The changes brought about through the Navkiran Project have had a clear, measurable impact on the children’s lives at Shree Swami Samarth Balakashram.
Today, 85% of students regularly follow personal hygiene routines—a 66% increase since the project began. The usage of clean, functional toilets has risen to 80%, and access to safe drinking water is now available to 90% of the campus—marking a 45% improvement. Teacher and staff satisfaction with sanitation and water facilities has gone up by 20%, and access to reliable electricity has increased to 68%, creating a more productive and comfortable environment for learning.
A Model for Change
The transformation of Shree Swami Samarth Balakashram is a powerful example of how thoughtful, community-led interventions can change lives. From improved health and hygiene to better learning conditions and environmental sustainability, this project shows what’s possible when the right resources meet the right intentions. In a landscape where many Ashramshalas still struggle with the basics, this success story lights the way forward.
