In Telangana, Badi Bata is a special drive led by the government to increase enrollment in government schools through active community involvement. The program focuses on identifying out-of-school children, enrolling them in nearby government schools, and ensuring schools are fully prepared for the new academic year.

ILP’s NGO partner RDS played an active role in this initiative by conducting home visits to connect directly with families. Their efforts were focused on motivating parents and communities to send children—especially those at risk of dropping out—back to school. This not only helped increase enrollment but also worked towards preventing future dropouts.

Key activities of the Badi Bata campaign include:

• Community mobilization: Engaging local leaders, parents, and community members in the enrollment process.
• Identifying out-of-school children: Tracking and encouraging them to enroll.
• School readiness: Cleaning, maintenance, and decoration to create a welcoming learning environment.
• Parent-teacher meetings: Building trust and collaboration between families and schools.
• Highlighting government school benefits: Raising awareness about free textbooks, uniforms, and midday meals.
• Updating village education registers: Ensuring accurate and current records.
• Enrolling children in nearby government schools: Facilitating timely and appropriate placements.

Through grassroots efforts like these, Badi Bata continues to bring education closer to every child—with committed partners like RDS making a real impact on the ground.