Andhra to introduce 'Ammaku Vandanam' in schools to promote 'mother worship'

A unique programme to pay tribute to mothers will be introduced in the government-run schools in Andhra Pradesh from this year, officials said on Monday.

Under 'Ammaku Vandanam' -- mother worship -- the school children will take the blessings of their mothers and may also do 'paada pooja' (washing her feet).

The government also decided to implement the programme in 5,000 high schools across the state from academic year 2017-18.

According to a government order issued on Monday, the mothers would be invited to the schools on a specific day every year for the special function.

The state government has allocated Rs 2.50 crore for organising the programme. While the government would provide Rs 1.25 crore, the remaining amount will have to be mobilised by the headmasters and teachers from alumni or donors.

The state Education Department said that it would be a voluntary programme, aimed at paying tributes to mothers and respect motherhood. It hopes this would inculcate in students respect for mothers and sensitise them towards women and gender equality.

Inspired by a programme in an Indonesian school, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu in February mooted the idea of 'Ammaku Vandanam'. 

"If there are good things in other countries, we should emulate," he said.

There are about 15 lakh students in government and Zilla Parishad high schools, where the programme would be organised, officials said.