India, Nov. 8 -- The SSM Shivaji Vidyalaya, run by the Shivaji Shikshanottejak Mandal, in Kalachowki, has been promoting an eco-friendly Diwali among its students for the past two years. Along with encouraging them to stay away from firecrackers, it has been using the opportunity to spread awareness about the history and preservation of forts built during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. As part of the initiative, students are encouraged to save the money they would otherwise have spent on firecrackers and use it to visit historic hill forts. The idea was conceptualised by the institution's director, Adhiraj Rajan Lokegaonkar, to help children understand the importance of protecting the state's historical heritage, and inculcate a sense of responsibility and pride in its preservation among students. "We want children to understand that Diwali can be celebrated responsibly without bursting firecrackers," said principal Kishor Teli....