Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh
Questions have been raised over the implementation of Madhya Pradesh’s flagship CM Rise School initiative after students residing in a hostel linked to Sandipani CM Rise School in Malhargarh, Mandsaur district, reportedly claimed they are forced to walk nearly 6 kilometres every day to attend classes despite school buses passing by their hostel.
According to information available, the distance between the students’ hostel and the school is approximately 3 kilometres. As a result, hostel residents reportedly walk around 3 kilometres to the school and another 3 kilometres back each day, covering a total distance of nearly 6 kilometres on foot.
Students have reportedly said that the daily commute consumes nearly two hours, leaving them with less time for classroom preparation, self-study, sports, and extracurricular activities. They claim the long walk affects both their academic routine and overall well-being.
The CM Rise School scheme was launched by the Madhya Pradesh government to provide students with access to modern educational infrastructure, smart classrooms, digital learning facilities, and improved transportation. School buses were introduced to ensure safe and convenient travel, particularly for students coming from distant or underserved areas.
However, local residents and parents have questioned why hostel students are allegedly not being allowed to use the buses when they reportedly pass directly in front of the hostel premises. They argue that providing transport to these students would significantly reduce travel time and enable them to focus more effectively on their studies and school activities.
Parents have also expressed concern that the inconvenience may negatively affect the physical health and academic performance of students, particularly during periods of extreme weather. They believe that if transportation facilities already exist, hostel students should also be able to benefit from them.
The issue has prompted criticism of the school’s administrative arrangements, with several residents calling for a review of the existing transport policy. They contend that while the government has invested substantial resources in improving educational infrastructure under the CM Rise initiative, effective implementation at the ground level is equally important to ensure students receive the intended benefits.
As of now, no detailed official statement from the school management or the district education authorities has been reported regarding the allegations. It also remains unclear whether hostel students are excluded from the bus service due to administrative guidelines, operational constraints, or any other policy-related reasons.
Education observers note that access to reliable transportation plays an important role in ensuring equal educational opportunities, particularly for students living away from their families. They say timely intervention can help improve attendance, academic performance, and the overall learning environment.
The matter is now expected to draw the attention of the Education Department and the district administration, with parents and local residents hoping that the concerns raised by the students will be examined and, if necessary, appropriate measures will be taken to provide transport facilities for hostel residents.
