School Education and Literacy Secretary Sanjay Kumar, along with Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, inaugurated the National School Band Competition (NSBC) 7, 2025–26. The event, held at National Bal Bhavan in New Delhi, aims to promote talents beyond academics in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This initiative emphasizes fostering discipline, teamwork, and musical excellence among school students nationwide.
The school band tradition, deeply rooted in the armed forces, symbolizes valour, unity, and morale, as highlighted by the Secretary of DoSEL. Sanjay Kumar emphasized the historical significance of music in motivating troops and fostering camaraderie during wartime. He praised the students’ dedication and hard work, underscoring their achievement in reaching the national level after months of rigorous practice.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh commended the collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Education in organizing the competition as part of the Republic Day Celebrations. He applauded the students for their precision, dedication, and musical prowess, noting that such endeavors cultivate patriotism and a spirit of national service among young learners. Amarpreet Duggal, Joint Secretary of DoSEL, conveyed gratitude to all participants, mentors, and organizers for their contributions to the success of the event.
In the Grand Finale, one school from Delhi and three schools from Jharkhand, including St. Xavier’s High School Lupungutu, Kairali School Sec-2, and Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya, have qualified. Additionally, two schools from Uttar Pradesh, namely St. Joseph College and City Montessori School Kanpur Road, have advanced to the final stage.
