LUCKNOW, July 1 -- The basic education department is set to launch the second phase of School Chalo Abhiyan across the state from July 1 to 15 following a sharp decline in student enrollment, with 48 lakh fewer students in government primary and upper primary schools in 2025-26 session. The move aims to bring all children aged 6 to 14 back to school. The state government has already released Rs.2 lakh to each district to support the campaign. This initiative goes beyond mere enrolment-it is an effort to bring the light of education to children who have remained out of school so far. Starting July 1, when schools reopen after the summer break, all council schools will be cleaned and decorated in a bright, festive manner, a government spokesperson stated in a press release. Every student will be welcomed with roli-chandan, flower garlands, and sweet dishes. Special items like halwa and kheer will be served in the midday meal on this day to create a sense of affection, belonging, and enthusiasm among the children, the statement added. Even as the government renewed its focus on the School Chalo Abhiyan, government schools in Uttar Pradesh will have to work overtime to bridge the enrollment gap. Basic education minister Sandeep Singh said, "School Chalo Abhiyan is a living example of the Uttar Pradesh government's commitment to education. This is not just a campaign, but our firm resolve to ensure every child receives their right to education." Additional chief secretary, basic education, Deepak Kumar said, "The second phase of the School Chalo Abhiyan will begin from July 1. Instructions have been issued to all Basic shiksha Adhikaris (BSAs) to organise rallies, parent-teacher meetings, and school management committee meetings. Teachers will visit the nearby villages to ensure no child is left out of school. Public representatives have also been requested to flag off rallies at schools and actively participate in the campaign." Director general, school education, Kanchan Verma said, "UP basic education department will resume the admissions process." Student enrolment has declined steadily over four academic sessions, from 2022-23 to the current 2025-26 session. On May 28 this year, chief minister Yogi Adityanath urged all government school teachers to ensure children are brought to school. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, government-run primary and upper primary schools (Classes 1 to 8) across Uttar Pradesh have witnessed a sharp decline in enrolment, with nearly 90 lakh (9 million) fewer students.There are about 1.36 lakh Basic Shiksha Parishad schools in the state....