India needs a new school every seven minutes: Maneka Gandhi

"India needs a new school every seven minutes in order to give quality education to slum children," said Women and Child Development Minister, Maneka Gandhi as she interacted through a live chat with users on Facebook.

"Statistically, India needs a new school every seven minutes. Ours is the largest school system in the world. I agree, we can do better," she added.

Interaction was initiated by the Ministry in an effort to enhance participation for its '100 Women Initiative' to recognise women achievers. She also called for increased participation from men in creating gender sensitivity.

"Men's role is the most critical since all the violence is male-generated. One of the ways to tackle this is at the school stage. So, we have started something which will go into effect in a few months, called 'Gender Champions' under which boys will be chosen who have been particularly respectful and helpful to girls and deserve to be emulated and rewarded," Gandhi added.

"Prizes will be given to a person in each class annually. It can also be given to a girl who has been outstanding in her bravery or attitude, etc," she said. The minister also said that media is more sensitive to women issues in India as compared to abroad.