Srinagar, July 9 -- The final school bell before the summer or winter break once symbolized freedom. It marked the beginning of weeks filled with laughter, family gatherings, outdoor adventures, books read for pleasure, and the quiet joy of simply being a child. Vacations were never intended to be an extension of the classroom; they were designed to refresh young minds and prepare them for a new academic beginning.

Today, that cherished tradition is gradually disappearing.

For millions of children across India, vacations have become another academic term disguised as a break. Bulky homework assignments, compulsory projects, online classes, worksheets, presentations, and coaching sessions now dominate what should have been weeks of relax...