New Delhi: The eagerly anticipated grand finale of the National School Band Competition, jointly organized by the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Education as part of the Republic Day celebrations, is all set to captivate audiences at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi on January 21 and 22, 2024. Droupadi Girls High School, Nishaposi, Mayurbhanj, Odisha is one among the 16 schools taking part in the competition in Pipe Band Girls event. This spectacular two-day event will showcase the musical prowess of 16 band teams, with four teams representing each zone (East, West, South, and North).
The competition, aligned with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to popularize Indian music and tunes, features four categories: Boys Brass Band, Girls Brass Band, Boys Pipe Band, and Girls Pipe Band.
The top three teams in each category will be awarded a cash prize (1st – Rs 21,000, 2nd – Rs 16,000, 3rd – Rs 11,000), along with a trophy and certificates. Consolation cash prizes of Rs 3,000 each will be granted to the remaining teams in each category. A distinguished jury appointed by the Ministry of Defence, including members from each wing of the Armed Forces, will adjudicate the grand finale.
The competition unfolded at three levels—State, Zonal, and a nationwide contest encompassing all schools (CBSE, ICSE, KVS, NVS, and Sainik schools, etc.). A total of 486 teams, comprising 12,857 children, showcased their musical talents at the State Level Competition, while 73 teams, consisting of 2,002 children, participated at the Zonal Level.
The initiative seeks to rejuvenate the spirit of patriotism and unity among schoolchildren nationwide, motivating them on the path of holistic education.