Archive · 17 Aug 2025
Village in West Bengal Overcomes Illiteracy With Education
In a West Midnapore village that lacked schools, a retired army officer started a free school in 2007.
This initiative, supported by volunteers and The Art of Living, aimed to provide education to underprivileged children.
Initially facing challenges like skepticism and financial constraints, the school adopted a holistic approach.
It combined academics with life skills, yoga, and meditation.
Today, it educates over 400 students, providing free books and meals, and its alumni are pursuing higher education in various fields.
A West Midnapore village with no prior educational infrastructure now produces doctors and engineers.
In 2007, a retired army officer started a free school for underprivileged children with 17 students.
The Art of Living adopted the school in 2010, expanding its reach and impact.
The school provides value-based education, including academics, yoga, and life skills.
SSGM Eral now educates 413 students from LKG to Class X, offering free resources.
- Who
- Led by retired army officer Milan Chandra Maikap, supported by volunteers and The Art of Living.
- What
- A village transformed through education, with a free school providing value-based learning.
- When
- Initiative started in 2007, with support from The Art of Living from 2010 onwards.
- Where
- A remote village in West Midnapore.
- Why
- To combat illiteracy and provide education for underprivileged children in the village.
Skeptics
Supporters
Skepticism vs Value
Skeptics
Value of formal education questioned
Supporters
Value-based education benefits students
- Village Population
- 1,603
- Year Initiative Started
- 2007
- Initial Student Count
- 17
- School Adoption by Art of Living
- 2010
- Current Student Enrollment
- 413
- Classes Offered
- LKG to Class X