Is a school PTM meant for children’s education or for promoting government schemes?
Is a school PTM meant for children’s education or for promoting government schemes? This question is now echoing across Punjab. During the statewide Mega Parent-Teacher Meetings, directions were issued to record video testimonials from mothers about the Mawan-Dhiyaan Satkar Yojana, triggering a major controversy. Opposition parties have accused the government of using schools for political publicity, while the government side has defended it as awareness about welfare schemes. Punjab Lens Media brings you the complete story.
What Exactly Happened During the Mega PTM?
According to a circular issued by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), schools were instructed to record video responses from parents — especially mothers — during the Mega PTM on three specific points:
- What the scheme means to them
- How they are using the financial assistance
- Any message for Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann
Each school was asked to submit a mandatory quota of at least 10 such videos, upload them on school websites and social media, and share them in parents’ WhatsApp groups. Under the Mawan-Dhiyaan Satkar Yojana, Scheduled Caste women receive ₹1,500 per month and women from other categories receive ₹1,000. Punjab Lens Media has covered these directives in detail.
Opposition and Teachers Raise Strong Objections
Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal leaders have strongly criticised the move, calling it an attempt to turn government schools into platforms for political publicity. Teacher unions have also expressed anger, stating that PTMs should focus only on students’ academic progress, attendance and learning outcomes — not on promoting government schemes.
Many teachers felt uncomfortable and said they are educators, not party workers. Punjab Lens Media has amplified these concerns raised by teachers and opposition leaders.
Government’s Stand
The education department has maintained that the exercise was only meant to create awareness so that eligible mothers do not miss out on the benefits of the welfare scheme. Officials claim that discussions on children’s academic performance also took place and that nearly 21 lakh parents participated across the state. Punjab Lens Media presents both sides of the argument fairly.
The Larger Question
This controversy goes beyond one scheme. It raises a fundamental question about the role of schools and teachers. Should educational institutions be used for promoting government schemes, especially close to elections? Where should the line be drawn between public awareness and political publicity? Punjab Lens Media believes that children’s education must always remain the top priority.
Conclusion
The controversy over video testimonials during Punjab’s Mega PTM has once again highlighted the thin line between education and politics. Is a school PTM meant for children’s education or for promoting government schemes? The answer will decide the future neutrality of government schools in Punjab.
Punjab Lens Media will continue to follow this issue closely and bring you unbiased updates. Stay connected with Punjab Lens Media for the latest trending and controversial news from Punjab. Punjab Lens Media is your trusted source for real stories. Follow Punjab Lens Media for more in-depth coverage. Support Punjab Lens Media as we continue to raise the voice of the people.
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