The Madhya Pradesh government is organising ‘Umang Diwas 2026’ across 9,339 government high and higher secondary schools, with a focus on life skills, mental health, gender equality and overall student well-being. Around 22 lakh students are expected to participate in the state-wide programme.
Organised jointly by the Madhya Pradesh School Education Department and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the programme is being conducted under the theme “Umang Hai Toh Zindagi Mein Rang Hai.” It aims to help students handle everyday challenges, understand their emotions, build confidence and develop sensitivity and respect towards others.
The initiative follows the ‘Umang Triveni’ framework, which focuses on three major areas — life skills, equality and self-defence. The life-skills component covers the 10 core skills identified by the WHO, along with mental-health awareness and information about the 14425 helpline.
Under the ‘Ujjwal’ initiative, students, particularly boys, will be encouraged to become Gender Champions, challenge stereotypes and promote mutual respect and gender equality. The ‘Sashakt’ component will introduce female students to practical self-defence and awareness about bodily autonomy.
The programme also includes dedicated activities for Children with Special Needs (CWSN). A special activity-based guide has been developed in collaboration with UNFPA, while 110 master trainers will train 9,449 teachers for effective implementation.
At the school level, the 150-minute programme includes activities such as the Umang Anthem, a confidential ‘Meri Paati’ drop-box, empowerment stations, role-play activities and a ‘Rang-e-Umang’ wall. Special awareness posters focusing on emotional health and mental well-being are also being distributed to schools across the state.
