Government focuses on student fitness; physical education made mandatory for classes 6 to 12 in Tamil Nadu..

The Tamil Nadu government has taken a significant decision to promote the physical and mental development of students. Starting from the new academic session, Physical Education classes have been made mandatory for students in classes 6 through 12 across all government and private schools in the state. The government believes that alongside academics, sports and exercise are essential for the holistic development of students.

The School Education Department has issued detailed guidelines in this regard. Additionally, monitoring will be intensified to ensure that all schools comply with the regulations and accord adequate importance to sports activities.

**Decision taken following negligence by private schools**
According to department officials, complaints were received last year against several private schools for failing to conduct the prescribed Physical Education classes. Some institutions utilized these periods for extra academic or special classes. Taking these complaints seriously, the government decided to take strict measures to ensure students have ample opportunities for sports and physical activity.

**Monitoring of sports grounds and facilities**
The government has instructed district-level Physical Education inspectors to gather information on schools that possess sports grounds but are not utilizing them. Reports on such schools will be prepared and submitted to the department. The objective is to ensure the optimal use of sports resources.

**Special training for students interested in sports**
The guidelines also state that, in addition to regular Physical Education classes, students interested in sports should be provided with special training after school hours. Furthermore, officials have been directed to identify schools that have performed well in state or national-level sports competitions. The government aims to nurture the talent of students by encouraging greater participation in sports.

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