Similarly, the Martial Arts Academy of India (MAAI), which operates from the Andrews Ganj Extension has incorporated self defense in their regular Taekwondo classes, besides holding classes for schools and groups of children.

Lessons in self defense are high on the agenda with parents, concerned with the rising number of cases of crimes against children. The shooting at the Euro International School in Gurgaon, too, has shaken them up. “Parents can’t be with their children all the time. My son Kai is a very quiet child and these lessons will help him take care of himself,” says businessman Shalabh Khulbe, Kai’s dad, who’s just enrolled him in self defense classes. Kai is one of nine students who have enrolled at the IKMF since registration began on the January 1.

But why not lessons in martial arts the traditional favourite of young children? Rajnish Jawas, chief instructor of MAAI makes it clear that self defense must not be confused with martial arts. “The basics are entirely opposite. Karate, Judo, Taekwondo and other forms of martial art are sports, taught for competitions. Their primary ethos is respect for the rival and the student’s actions are bound by a large number of rules. Martial arts do not teach a child to react to everyday threats and violence where there are no rules,” he adds.

Self defense revolves around basic tips like making eye contact and looking confident but not aggressive when confronted by a bully, tactfully withdrawing from the assailant’s presence and moving around in groups. Physical assault is advised only as a final measure, and students are taught about crucial body parts where even a weak kick or punch can temporarily disable an assailant. “Even pinching can be an effective tool. Of course, the children have to practice pinching hard,” says Jawas. “Usually, the counter techniques are according to a child’s own strength. A child is trained to develop his own power to take on stronger opponents.”

IKMF courses uses a heavily watered-down version of Krav Maga (Hebrew for “eliminate the danger”), a combat system developed by the Israeli defense forces and which is taught only to students above 18. At MAAI, the techniques are based on in-house studies.

The students are put through drills to improve their strength, stamina and flexibility, along with reflex action since time is of the essence in apprehending an assault. “The children are taught to interpret touch, and react accordingly,” says Vicky Kapoor, an instructor at IKMF. “Even potential bullies are welcome to these classes. We also advise parents on how to curb violent tendencies in children.”

Neelam Puri, headmistress of the middle section of Modern School, Barakhamba Road, says ,“With frustration levels rising, it helps build confidence in children if they know how to protect themselves .”