25th July, 2025
In a groundbreaking move to empower girls across the state, the Rajasthan Education Department announced that admissions to the first-ever Balika Sainik Schools will begin in January 2026. This ambitious initiative was unveiled as part of the state government’s 2025–26 budget, signaling a major stride in inclusive education and youth leadership.
A Landmark Launch
The inaugural Balika Sainik School will be established in Jaimalsar, Bikaner, through the generosity of industrialist Poonamchand Rathi, who donated land and infrastructure valued at ₹108 crore.
A ceremonial handover and inspection of the school premises are expected to follow soon.
Structure & Schedule
- Admissions: Applications open January 2026
- Entrance Exam: Scheduled for April 2026, with results out by May
- Academic Session: Begins July 2026
Academic & Administrative Framework
Each class will admit 80 girl students, focusing on a robust science curriculum under the Rajasthan Board of Secondary Education (RBSE). The schools will operate on the model of the existing Sainik School in Chittorgarh, with retired army officers appointed as principals and hostel wardens.
Expansion Plans
Beyond Bikaner, land has already been allotted for Balika Sainik Schools in six additional locations: Sri Ganganagar, Kota, Jaisalmer, Ajmer, Bharatpur, and Alwar. Prospective sites in Jaipur and Udaipur are also in the pipeline
Why This Matters
- Gender-Inclusive Military Education: Traditionally male-dominated, the Sainik School system is now expanding its reach to empower girls, offering enriched academic and military-oriented training.
- Creating Pathways to National Service: With leadership training and residential facilities embedded, these schools are uniquely positioned to accelerate girls’ entry into armed forces, paramilitary, and police careers
- A Philanthropic Catalyst: The Rathi family’s donation underscores the indispensable role of civic leadership in transforming educational landscapes and championing girl-centric institutions.
- Scale & Reach: A total of nine new military-style schools—eight exclusively for girls—mapped across Rajasthan divisions mark an unprecedented scale of investment in women’s education and empowerment.