This has been a vision in India for some time-a school that is not only a centre for learning but also a model of cleanliness and sustainability. With the launch of the Swachh Evam Harit Vidyalaya Rating (SHVR), the government has moved one step ahead. The initiative builds upon the earlier Swachh Vidyalaya Puraskar (SVP), which saw the participation of schools across States and Union Territories. SHVR has expanded the concept to add ‘green’ to the realms of hygiene and sanitation, as per National Education Policy (NEP), 2020. This has become mandatory for all CBSE-affiliated schools for 2025-26. For schools, principals, and teachers, knowing how to apply and what the guidelines say is essential.
What is Swachh Evam Harit Vidyalaya Rating (SHVR)?
SHVR is a school assessment framework that checks how well schools maintain hygiene, sanitation, and green practices. It covers both school hygiene and environmental sustainability in education. A high SHVR score gives schools recognition at the district, state, or national level. The top-performing schools receive a 5-star SHVR rating.
Why SHVR matters today
Students spend a considerable amount of time in school. This is the place where they also learn good habits and values. They learn about hygiene, waste management, and sustainability among other things, that directly affect their health and well-being. Sustainable practices and environmental awareness are also important for preparing them to face global challenges.
With the previous Swachh Vidyalaya Puraskar involving participation by over 8.23 lakh schools, with improvements made to SHVR, and starting to target every school, whether government, government-aided or private, either rural or urban, across India. SHVR will aim to promote awareness of citizenship skills, fundamental duties, and environmental values in young learners by incorporating simple methods of maintaining cleanliness and sustainability. Furthermore, SHVR embraces Samagra Shiksha and Mission LiFE – this initiative reached beyond rating for cleanliness but will also provide insights to establishing healthy schools and green schools.
What are the SHVR Evaluation Categories?
The SHVR assessment looks at six areas, with over 60 indicators in total:
- Water
- Toilets
- Handwashing
- Operation and Maintenance
- Behaviour Change and Capacity Building
- Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment)
The SHVR Application Process
The Swachh Evam Harit Vidyalaya Rating application process is simple:
- Register on the SHVR portal using UDISE+ code or through the mobile app.
- Fill in the self-assessment form.
- Based on performance, a star rating will be given across different categories.
Schools can contact the helpdesk in case of any issues related to the portal, password ot SHVR certificate download errors.
Benefits of Swachh Evam Harit Vidyalaya Rating (SHVR) for Schools
- Students attend school more regularly when they are healthy. Provision of resources like clean classrooms, safe drinking water, and proper sanitation, reduce the chances of students falling ill.
- Students develop habits like handwashing, waste separation, etc. and these habits then become a part of daily routine.
- A school with a high SHVR rating builds trust among the parents and community members.
- Efficient use of resources lowers costs and ensures sustainable operations of the school.
How to Achieve a 5-Star SHVR Rating
- Maintain and monitor toilets and handwashing stations daily.
- Conduct Mission LiFE activities regularly.
- Train staff and students on hygiene and environment.
- Keep proper records and upload evidence during self-assessment.
- Encourage student-led initiatives like cleanliness drives.
Important Dates for SHVR 2025-26
- Last Date for Registration: 30 September 2025
- Results & Recognition Ceremony: 2026
FAQs on SHVR
- Is SHVR compulsory for all schools?
Yes. All CBSE-affiliated schools with a valid UDISE code must register for SHVR 2025-26. - Can private schools apply for SHVR?
Yes. Government, private, tribal, minority, KVS, NVS, and residential schools are all eligible. - How is the SHVR score calculated?
The score is based on 60+ indicators across six categories like water, toilets, handwashing, and Mission LiFE. - What are the documents needed for SHVR registration?
Basic school details, UDISE+ code, photos, and evidence of facilities. - How to download the SHVR certificate?
After verification, schools can log into the SHVR portal to download their certificate in PDF.