Rohtak, July 14: Government primary school students across Rohtak will now dedicate the first quarter-hour after their zero period to independent reading, following the launch of a new district administration initiative. The daily fifteen-minute reading challenge follows Project Vishwas as the latest effort to enhance foundational literacy and bridge critical learning gaps among young learners.
Every child will select age-appropriate books of their choice, ranging from biographies and storybooks to newspapers and children’s literature. The reading material is being supplied directly through newly established classroom reading corners and existing school resources to ensure easy access for all students.
“The initiative is expected to significantly improve reading fluency, vocabulary, language proficiency, comprehension and critical thinking while cultivating a lifelong habit of reading,” Deputy Commissioner Sachin Gupta declared during a recent review meeting. He maintained that the strategy aligns directly with the goals of the National Education Policy 2020 and the NIPUN Bharat Mission.
Classroom teachers are tasked with establishing a quiet, library-like atmosphere during this period, guiding students through unfamiliar vocabulary and concepts to foster a joy for books. The administration hopes this routine will shift the educational focus toward building independent thinkers rather than just preparing children for standard examinations.
“Our vision is to ensure that every child in Rohtak not only learns to read but reads with understanding, thinks independently, communicates confidently and develops the skills required to succeed in life,” the Deputy Commissioner asserted. He further stated that the ultimate goal remains transforming local government schools into true centres of excellence.
Beyond the reading initiative, the administration evaluated broader educational metrics using the district-wide Competency Review Programme and the Digital Skill Passbook. While internal data shows that younger students in classes one through three have shown steady development in letter recognition, basic math, and oral expression, the assessments also exposed lingering challenges in specific areas.
Officials remarked that a notable portion of the student population still struggles when asked to read unfamiliar passages, understand their core meaning, or answer context-based questions. To complement the academic updates, the administration issued instructions for stricter monitoring of the PM POSHAN Scheme, calling for frequent checks on mid-day meal hygiene alongside a greater push for student field trips and hands-on learning.
