The Rajasthan High Court has initiated a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL) focusing on the well-being and prospects of children and young adults from Generations Z, Alpha, and Beta. The case, titled IN RE: “In the matter of Welfare and Future of Generation Gen-Z, Gen-Alpha and Gen-Beta”, was spearheaded by Justice Anoop Kumar Dhand on Monday.
Key Concerns for Future Generations
Justice Dhand emphasized that these generations are poised to lead the nation in the coming years. He stressed the importance of equipping them to thrive amidst a rapidly evolving technological and social landscape. Highlighting the critical role of the state, the Court remarked, “Children are the future of a nation. How we care, teach, and protect them today will determine our country’s future strength and success.”
The Court identified several pressing issues affecting Gen Z, including recurrent exam paper leaks, the education-employment gap, mental health challenges, job security in the gig economy, high living costs, climate anxiety, political representation, and cyber safety. It underscored the need for policies to regulate screen time due to concerns over children’s sleep, concentration, social skills, and learning abilities.
Government Action and Policy Recommendations
The Court instructed the Central and Rajasthan governments to present status reports and action plans addressing these concerns. Key recommendations include:
- Implementing robust systems to prevent exam paper leaks.
- Reforming curricula to include AI, data, and green skills, along with apprenticeships and internships linked to industries.
- Providing accessible mental health counseling and addressing digital burnout.
- Introducing social security measures for gig workers.
- Making housing affordable and reforming education loans.
- Encouraging youth involvement in policymaking.
- Enhancing AI literacy, data protection, and cyber-safety education.
Focus on Educational Infrastructure
The Court also highlighted the inadequate conditions of government schools, particularly in rural areas, which are crucial for shaping future generations. It called for measures such as filling vacant teaching positions, recruiting computer instructors and counselors, providing smart classrooms, and ensuring internet connectivity. Improvements in healthcare, sanitation, electricity, playgrounds, and sports facilities were also deemed essential.
For the safety of female students, the installation of CCTV cameras and hiring female staff were recommended. The Court addressed the ineffective implementation of the Food Safety and Standards (Safe Food and Balanced Diets for Children in Schools) Regulations, 2020, mandating the prohibition of selling unhealthy foods within school premises.
The government has been instructed to enforce restrictions on high-fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS) foods in schools, with monthly inspections by District Magistrates and Block Education Officers. Schools are required to establish food safety committees, display nutritional information, and enable mechanisms for reporting violations.
Monitoring and Future Proceedings
The Rajasthan State Commission for Protection of Child Rights and District Collectors are tasked with conducting surprise inspections of government schools in villages within eight weeks. Additionally, the state must form a “Generation Z, Alpha and Beta Monitoring Cell” under the Chief Secretary to review progress every three months.
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Show-cause notices have been issued to the Centre, the Rajasthan government, FSSAI, and the Rajasthan State Commission for Protection of Child Rights. They are required to submit status reports and action plans. The case is scheduled for further hearings after eight weeks.
