3 days ago
State to regulate private tuitions, school fee hikes and supply sales
In a move aimed at curbing commercialisation in school education, the Maharashtra government is set to introduce new regulations to control private coaching classes, cap arbitrary fee hikes, and stop schools from forcing parents to buy uniforms and books from specific vendors.
School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse told the Assembly on Tuesday that a Private Coaching Regulation Act is being drafted to check tie-ups between colleges and private tuitions. 'The draft and related rules are under preparation. Inputs from MLAs will be considered,' he said.
Bhuse also said that the Maharashtra Educational Institutions (Regulation of Fee) Act, 2011 will be amended to address rising complaints of illegal fee hikes. 'Schools cannot charge beyond the approved fee structure. Any violations will lead to action. Education is a social responsibility, not a business,' he said.
Responding to another question, Bhuse said guidelines will soon be issued to stop schools from mandating the purchase of school materials from select vendors. 'Parents should have the freedom to buy from any shop. Any coercion will be dealt with strictly,' he added.
The measures come amid growing concern over rising costs in private schools and lack of regulatory oversight.
