Jamshedpur: In East Singhbhum district, thana prabharis are turning into tutors in their spare time mentoring kids at rural schools on various aspects of civility. The move, mooted by the rural SP is aimed at sensitising kids at a tender age, to be social guardians. Besides giving pep talks, cops are also helping students in preparing for competitive exams.Police personnel are regularly visiting govt secondary and higher secondary schools in rural pockets of the district, conducting interactive sessions that go beyond textbooks. Officers are sensitising children on a wide range of topics, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, girls’ safety, cybercrime, drug abuse, road safety and traffic rules. Sessions also cover basics of the judicial system and fundamental rights related to education and personal liberty, fostering legal awareness and responsible citizenship.“We generally conduct one session every week, though sometimes there are two depending on need. Around half a dozen schools fall under Dumaria police station, and programmes are held regularly,” said Panchanan Tigga, officer-in-charge of Dumaria police station.Patamda OC Vishnu Charan Bhokta said the initiative aims to help students understand real-life challenges and make informed choices. “These sessions address issues directly impacting their lives and guide them in finding solutions,” he said.Launched in April last year by then SP (Rural) Rishabh Garg, the initiative is boosting confidence among rural students and inspire them to pursue their dreams, reinforcing that they are no less capable than their urban counterparts.The programme has also evolved into a platform for career counselling. “Many students ask about career options after school and college. These discussions are very helpful,” said Anjani Mahato, a student of a govt high school in Dumaria. Rajveer Murmu, a Class XII student who attended the previous sessions, noted that the police officials’ approach has been excellent. “They help us understand the challenges of the life ahead and assist us in preparing to face them,” Rajveer said.“The initiative of the police administration has been immensely beneficial to our students. We urge the administration to increase the frequency of these sessions,” said Abhay Kumar Singh, Principal of Asthakoshi Government High School, Dumaria.
