In an update, The Ministry of Education has urged all States and Union Territories to implement the "Guidelines on School Safety and Security-2021" to improve the protection of children in educational institutions. This directive follows orders from the Supreme Court in Writ Petitions (Criminal) No. 136 of 2017 and (Civil) No. 874 of 2017.

Aligned with the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the guidelines aim to establish clear accountability for school management across government, government-aided, and private schools. Key components include preventive education, reporting procedures, legal provisions, support services, and fostering a safe learning environment.

Further, the Ministry has asked the states to report on the notification status of these guidelines within their regions.