In the wake of a tragic school building collapse in Rajasthan's Jhalawar district that resulted in the death of seven students and injuries to 28 others, the Ministry of Education has issued urgent directives to all States and Union Territories to conduct comprehensive safety audits of schools and other facilities used by children. The ministry is calling for immediate action to safeguard the safety and well-being of students across the country.

The directive mandates safety audits of all schools and public facilities frequented by children and youth, emphasizing that these audits must align with national safety codes and disaster management guidelines. Critical areas to be examined include structural integrity, fire safety, emergency exits, and electrical wiring.

To ensure preparedness for emergencies, the ministry is also stressing the importance of training staff and students. The recommended training includes evacuation drills, first aid, and adherence to safety protocols. The Ministry of Education has urged Education Departments, School Boards, and affiliated authorities to act without delay in implementing the safety measures.

In addition to physical safety, the ministry is emphasizing the importance of mental health and emotional well-being, recommending counseling services and peer support systems. The ministry has recommended that collaborations with local authorities like NDMA, fire services, police, and medical agencies must be strengthened to conduct periodic training sessions and mock drills.

The Supreme Court previously addressed the rise in suicides and mental health issues among students in educational institutions and noted a "legislative and regulatory vacuum" concerning a unified framework for suicide prevention in educational settings.

The Ministry of Education's new directives include several key steps for States and Union Territories: * Preventive Safety Measures * Awareness and Training * Psychosocial Well-being * Reporting Mechanisms * Public Responsibility

The Ministry of Education has also called for schools to ensure the structural integrity of buildings. The directives from the Centre also incorporate measures to ensure the mental and physical well-being of all students. The ministry's recommendations also cover mechanisms and facilities to identify potential hazards and ensure a safe learning environment for students and staff.