In a move aimed at empowering girl students, Tamil Nadu’s School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi launched the much-awaited ‘Agal Vilakku’ scheme on 9th August 2025.
The program, designed to help girls from classes IX to XII navigate the digital world safely, addresses the growing concerns of cybercrime and online harassment. It’s the first of its kind in the state, and hopes to guide students on how to stay safe online while promoting mental and social well-being.
What is the ‘Agal Vilakku’ Scheme?
The ‘Agal Vilakku’ scheme is a comprehensive initiative that aims to equip girl students with the tools they need to safely use technology, avoid online scams, and deal with cyberbullying. The scheme will run over six weeks, divided into six informative modules. The sessions will be conducted by female teachers, creating a safe space for students to discuss and understand the various challenges they face in the digital world.
Overview of the scheme
| Key Aspect | Details |
| Target Group | Girls in classes IX to XII |
| Main Focus | Awareness on cybercrime, cyberbullying, safe use of technology |
| Duration | 6 modules over 6 weeks |
| Who Will Lead? | Female teachers in government schools |
| Location of Launch | Government Girls’ Higher Secondary School, Keeramangalam, Pudukottai |
| Special Feature | Focus on empowering students to understand both digital safety and mental well-being |
Purpose of Agal Vilakku Scheme
In today’s digital age, while the internet offers immense learning and growth opportunities, it also brings with it a host of risks—cybercrime, scams, and online bullying, to name a few. The ‘Agal Vilakku’ scheme is aimed at raising awareness among students about these dangers and teaching them how to avoid falling prey to harmful online activities.
Minister Poyyamozhi, speaking at the launch event, emphasized the importance of using technology wisely. “Technology is a blessing, but it can also be a curse. Be cautious in your online interactions, avoid scams, and draw inspiration from women achievers who have used technology to change the world,” he said.
The launch event was held at the Government Girls’ Higher Secondary School in Keeramangalam, Pudukottai, chosen due to its historical significance—Pudukottai is the birthplace of India’s first female doctor, Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy.
Key Features of the Agal Vilakku Scheme
Cybersecurity Awareness: The scheme will educate students about the risks of cybercrime, including online frauds, cyberbullying, and identity theft.
Practical Learning: The program includes an interactive curriculum where female teachers guide students through real-life scenarios to help them understand online threats.
Parental Involvement: Guidelines will encourage students to discuss any online threats with their parents or teachers.
Digital Safety Tips: The program will also focus on teaching students basic online safety measures like using strong passwords, avoiding harmful websites, and recognizing online scams.
Benefits of the ‘Agal Vilakku’ Scheme
- Awareness Building: Students will be made aware of the potential dangers of online spaces, including cyberbullying and online harassment.
- Empowerment: By learning how to safely navigate the digital world, students will feel more confident and in control when using the internet.
- Mental Well-being: The program will also focus on the mental health of students, teaching them how to deal with the emotional challenges of the digital age.
- Support from Female Mentors: With female teachers leading the initiative, the scheme creates a comfortable environment for girls to seek guidance and mentorship.
Guidelines for Safe Internet Usage
As part of the scheme, students will be taught some essential guidelines to stay safe online. These include:
- Don’t Share Personal Info: Avoid sharing any personal details like your address, phone number, or passwords.
- Get Parental Permission: Always use internet apps and websites with the approval of a parent or guardian.
- Stick to Trusted Sites: Use only reliable and secure websites, and steer clear of suspicious ones.
- Avoid Harmful Content: Be cautious when browsing and avoid any harmful or inappropriate content.
- Report Cybercrimes: If you face any kind of cybercrime or cyberbullying, immediately report it to your parents, teachers, or authorities.
- Use Strong Passwords: Keep your accounts secure by using strong, unique passwords.
- Anti-virus Protection: Install antivirus software and keep your devices updated to avoid security threats.
With the launch of the ‘Agal Vilakku’ scheme, Tamil Nadu has taken a significant step towards ensuring the safety of its students in the digital world.
As part of the next phase, the scheme will be rolled out across other government schools in the state. Students will also have access to resources like awareness brochures and instructional videos, further empowering them to handle online threats.
FAQs
What is the ‘Agal Vilakku’ scheme?
The ‘Agal Vilakku’ scheme is an initiative launched by Tamil Nadu’s School Education Department to help girl students from classes IX to XII stay safe in the digital world. The scheme focuses on educating students about the risks of cybercrime, cyberbullying, and online scams, while also promoting safe internet usage and mental well-being. The program will be conducted in six modules over six weeks, led by female teachers.
Who is eligible for this scheme?
The ‘Agal Vilakku’ scheme is designed for girl students studying in government high schools and secondary schools across Tamil Nadu, specifically for those in classes IX to XII.
How will the scheme be delivered to students?
The program will be delivered through six interactive modules over a span of six weeks. Female teachers will conduct the sessions, providing guidance on digital safety, cyberbullying prevention, and overall mental well-being. Students will also have access to informative brochures, videos, and practical tips for safe internet usage.
What are the key topics covered in the scheme?
Cybercrime Awareness: How to recognise and avoid online scams, frauds, and cyberbullying.
Safe Internet Practices: Guidelines for secure internet browsing, creating strong passwords, and using trusted websites.
Mental Well-being: How to handle the emotional challenges posed by the digital world.
Reporting Issues: How to report cybercrimes and seek help from parents, teachers, or authorities.
How can students and parents get support if they face cyber issues?
If students face any cybercrimes or online harassment, they are encouraged to immediately inform their parents or teachers. Additionally, they can file legal complaints through the official Cybercrime portal or contact the helpline at 1930 for assistance. Students are also taught how to block and report harmful online content.
Vikas Kumar holds an MA in Political Science and has a strong background in government projects, having worked on various contractual initiatives aimed at public welfare. He created this website to share essential updates on government schemes, aiming to empower citizens with the information they need to access valuable resources.
