Impacts of the National Green Corps Program (Eco-Clubs) on students in India and their participation in environmental education activities

India's National Green Corps (NGC) Eco-Clubs are a unique opportunity to educate youth about environmental issues. NGC objectives include: (1) educate children about their immediate environment by increasing awareness; (2) impart knowledge about eco-systems, their interdependence and need for survival, through visits and demonstrations; (3) mobilize youth by instilling a spirit of scientific inquiry into environmental problems; and (4) involve youth in active environmental preservation efforts. In 2005-2006, Eco-Clubs existed in nearly 68,000 schools across India representing 150 Eco-Clubs per district. During the 2007-2008 school year, the number of Eco-Clubs increased to approximately 97,000 in 519 districts. The purpose of the study reported here was to document and evaluate the effectiveness of Eco-Clubs and assess their organizational framework. An extensive document review of secondary data was employed and focus group interviews were conducted in two locations. Findings show that the partnership programs developed by schools with non-governmental organizations to propel the Eco-Club concept forward have contributed greatly to their ability to provide ongoing, quality programs for students. Recommendations include directing different agencies to work cohesively towards program success, clarifying the future NGC vision, and addressing existing operational shortcomings.