Introducing “Aatmraksha Vigyan” – A National Security Step Through Self-Empowerment
In a transformative move, the Bharatiya Shiksha Board (BSB) has launched a pioneering subject—“Aatmraksha Vigyan” (Self Defence Science)—as part of India’s national school curriculum. At the heart of this historic educational reform stands a decorated hero, Wing Commander Pushkal Vijay Dwivedi (Retd.), a name synonymous with discipline, patriotism, and educational innovation.
The Man Behind the Mission
A former officer of the Indian Air Force and an ex-Special Forces Combat Instructor, Wing Commander Dwivedi is not just a warrior but a philosopher and educator. He has served the nation with valour and now dedicates his post-service life to empowering India’s youth through education rooted in security awareness, mental resilience, and cultural strength.
What sets him apart is his unparalleled mastery in over ten martial arts disciplines—ranging from ancient Indian systems and to advanced tactical arts like Krav Maga , Silat,Kali etc . He is the person who, for the first time in the world claimed that “Tandava” is actually first the martial art in the entire cosmos. He is also a gold medalist in shooting, honoured with lifetime recognition by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) for his excellence and contribution to marksmanship.
Aatmraksha Vigyan: His Brainchild
Conceptualized under his strategic guidance and vision, Aatmraksha Vigyan aims to go beyond traditional PE classes or short-term self-defence workshops. It integrates physical conditioning, mental preparedness, yogic discipline, situational awareness, and threat-response training into a structured academic subject. It’s the first time in India—and perhaps the world—that defence science has been codified as a formal school subject.
Wing Commander Dwivedi envisioned a generation of Indian students who are not only intellectually sharp but also physically agile, emotionally balanced, and spiritually grounded—capable of defending themselves and contributing to a stronger nation.
Strategic Vision Meets Educational Reform
Backed by the spiritual and institutional guidance of Acharya Balkrishna, Chairperson of the Bharatiya Shiksha Board and MD of Patanjali Ayurved, Aatmraksha Vigyan represents a bold synthesis of ancient Indian martial wisdom and modern defence knowledge. The course includes modules on:
• Traditional Indian martial arts
• Mind-body control through yoga
• Real-life threat simulation and countermeasures
• Gender-sensitive defence tactics
• Psychological resilience and crisis response
– Combat psychology, Combat physiology and much more.
Gratitude to Leadership
Wing Commander Pushkal Vijay Dwivedi humbly expresses his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. N.P. Singh, I.A.S (Retd.), Chairman of Bharatiya Shiksha Board, for his timely guidance and unwavering support, which helped shape the direction and implementation of this pioneering initiative.
A Dual Role: Director General of BSAP
Beyond his contribution to BSB, Wing Commander Dwivedi also serves as the Director General of Bharatiya Shiksha Anusandhan Parishad (BSAP), a think tank dedicated to reforming Indian education with a blend of Bharatiya values, innovation, and scientific research. Under his leadership, BSAP is working to bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and modern academic frameworks.
A True Nationalist, A Silent Mentor
Wing Commander Pushkal Vijay Dwivedi’s quiet yet unwavering commitment to “Sashakt Bharat” (Empowered India) shines through this educational revolution. His life’s journey—from elite defence training grounds to educational policy boards—is an inspiration to generations of Indians.
His work is not merely a curriculum but a call to awaken national pride and preparedness among youth. In his own words, “True freedom is when the body, mind, and spirit are in harmony—and ready to protect that harmony.”
“With a background that includes exposure to strategic operations and intelligence frameworks at the highest levels of national security, Wing Commander Dwivedi brings a rare blend of field expertise and institutional foresight to the academic domain.” Says Dr N.P. Singh I.A.S. Chairman BSB.
Aatmraksha Vigyan is not just a subject. It’s a movement, a mission, and a milestone in India’s journey to becoming Atmanirbhar (self-reliant) in the truest sense. And at its helm is a man who embodies every principle he teaches—Wing Commander Pushkal Vijay Dwivedi, a living legend, and the torchbearer of a new era in Indian education.
