Jawahar Bal Bhavan in Neglect Ahead of Summer Vacation
With summer vacation approaching, Jawahar Bal Bhavan in Hyderabad remains in poor condition. The facility, once a vibrant center for children’s activities, now looks deserted with broken windows and doors. It also suffers from a shortage of staff, making it difficult to organize recreational programs for children.
Frustrated by the government’s negligence, parents and social activists submitted a request to the Telangana Education Department, urging them to restore the Bhavan. They believe it could once again serve as an important educational and recreational space for children.
Sources reveal that the Bhavan has been ignored for over a decade. In the past, it was a hub of learning, creativity, and cultural activities, offering training in arts, crafts, tailoring, and woodwork. Every summer, various camps were held for children. However, in recent years, no such programs have taken place.
Currently, the Bhavan has only a few staff members, as the education department has not filled vacant positions. This has affected activities such as dance, games, and other creative fields. The facility remains closed most of the time, opening only once every three days. Its library, once a valuable resource, now lacks proper books.
Parents have expressed disappointment that the Telangana Education Department has not taken steps to improve the Bhavan. They feel that the department is not concerned about maintaining or reviving this important institution.
Social activist and parent Mohammed Abid Ali criticized the lack of action. He pointed out that the Bhavan was inaugurated by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi but has remained closed for years. While similar centers operate in other states like Karnataka, Telangana has failed to maintain its Bal Bhavan. He added that parents eagerly wait for summer activities, but the facility remains in poor condition with broken windows, cracks in the building, and missing play equipment.
Another parent recalled attending summer camps at the Bhavan during childhood but lamented that no such events are organized now. Attempts to get a response from officials have been unsuccessful.
A senior officer, speaking anonymously, admitted that only a few activities take place at the Bhavan because vacant positions are not being filled. Although about 14 staff members are present, there is still a shortage of teachers for subjects like sitar, vocal music, and karate.
Parents and activists hope the government will take immediate action to restore Jawahar Bal Bhavan so that children can once again benefit from its programs.
