Ranchi: A sustained initiative by a residential govt school in Ranchi for over two years has helped the institution secure the all-India rank of 1 in the higher secondary category of the Swachh Evam Harit Vidyalaya Rating (SHVR) 2025-26 of the ministry of education, with a score of 99.2%.For principal Parmeshwari Kumari of the Jharkhand Balika Aawasiya Vidyalaya in Rahe, the honour marks sustained work by 350 students and 10 faculty members. The rating evaluates sanitation, hygiene, water management, environmental sustainability and student-led behavioural change.“It took us two years of continuous work to reach the position. We were not expecting the first rank, but everyone worked as a team. We carefully utilised available funds and invested in improving the school environment and student welfare,” she said.The school introduced rainwater harvesting, water conservation measures, improved handwashing stations and better bathroom facilities. Students participated through eco club activities linked to Mission LiFE and the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.“Our focus was on the holistic development of children. The ‘Bal Sansad’ played a crucial role, with students taking leadership responsibilities. Initiatives like ‘Jal Sainani’ encouraged them to become active participants in maintaining cleanliness, conserving water and monitoring school practices,” Kumari added.In the last edition, three schools from the state ranked nationally 15, 18 and 27. This year, Bihari Balika High School, Hazaribag, secured AIR 21 with 93.30%, while UPG Middle School, Turisot, in Latehar was ranked 64 with 90.40%.Jharkhand Education Project Council (JEPC) project director Shashi Ranjan said the result reflected sustained school-level efforts.“This recognition demonstrates that sustained efforts in sanitation, hygiene, environmental sustainability and student participation can produce outstanding results. The achievement of our top-ranking schools will serve as a model for other schools across the state striving to strengthen cleanliness, sustainability and overall learning environments,” he said.