School turns waste, water and grass craft into award-winning lessons
Manjari V Mahajan, principal of a government school in Himachal Pradesh, has been honored with a National Teachers Award for her innovative environmental education program. Her curriculum integrates waste management, water conservation, and the revival of traditional local crafts into daily student life.
Why it matters
This approach demonstrates how grassroots educational innovation can address environmental challenges while preserving cultural heritage.
At a government school in Himachal Pradesh, lessons do not always begin with a textbook. Students learn about waste by managing it, understand water conservation through activities and explore biodiversity around their campus. They have also been introduced to an old local craft that was at risk of fading from everyday life.Behind this approach is Manjari V Mahajan, Principal of Government Senior Secondary School, Bhaleth, whose work has earned national recognition through the National Teachers Awards 2026.Mahajan is among the 48 school teachers selected for the prestigious award, which recognises educators who have demonstrated innovation and sustained efforts to improve school education. President Droupadi Murmu presented the awards at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on Teachers’ Day, September 5.Turning environmental problems into lessonsAt Bhaleth, environmental education has been integrated into everyday school life.Under Mahajan’s leadership, students have participated in initiatives focused on waste management, composting, water conservation and biodiversity.
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