Today, the increase in fees and other fees of private schools has put parents under heavy economic pressure. Governments are becoming active on this issue in many states. The Jharkhand government has recently taken steps to stop the recovery of arbitrary fees by private schools. In this article, we will discuss this subject in detail and know how governments are solving this problem.
Government Action Against Private Schools (English Heading)
The Jharkhand government has recently taken strict steps to ban the practice of re-admission fees and other unnecessary fees by private schools. The issue was raised by Hazaribagh MLA Pradeep Prasad in the state assembly, in which he questioned the separate fee structure of schools. Education Minister Ramdas Soren assured that district level committees will investigate these cases and action will be taken on the guilty schools.
Scheme overview
| Name of initiative | Description |
| Purpose of the scheme | Ban on arbitrary fees of private schools |
| Implementation institution | Government of Jharkhand |
| Main issue | Re-admission fees and other fees |
| Monitoring committee | District level committee |
| Provision of fine | Fines up to ₹ 2.5 lakh |
| grievance procedure | Through the District Committee |
Private schools fees hike: problem and impact
Nowadays, fees hike in private schools have become a serious problem. Parents face an increase in fees up to 10-20% every year. Apart from this, many schools also charge extra fees such as books, uniforms, and extra-classes.
Main problems:
- Re-admission fees: Repeated admission fees are charged without any reason.
- Hidden fees: additional money for books, sports, and other activities.
- Justification for fees hike: Schools often increase fees without giving proper reasons.
Steps taken by the government
Government of Jharkhand:
- District level committees: Committees headed by the District Deputy Commissioner determines the fees structure of the schools.
- Provision of penalty: If found guilty, a fine of up to 2.5 lakh can be imposed.
- Regular meetings: District committees have been instructed to hold a meeting at least once a month.
Efforts in other states:
- Punjab: Fees hike cannot exceed 8%.
- Uttar Pradesh: Fees hikes were banned during Kovid epidemic.
- Gujarat: Provision to double the amount recovered additional recovered amount along with fine.
Why fees control is necessary?
Economic pressure:
The rising fees of private schools have suppressed middle class families under heavy economic burden. Many parents have to take loans for their children’s education.
Right to Education:
Education is the fundamental right of every child. If the fees will be so high that poor and middle class families cannot bear it, then it will be a violation of their rights.
What can be the solution?
By government:
- Fee Caping: To fix the maximum fee limit in all states.
- Strict monitoring: Regular inspection at district and state levels.
- Grievance Redressal: Providing an easy procedure to parents to file their complaints.
By parents:
- Solidarity: raising voice by creating a parent association.
- Complaint lodging: Complaint with appropriate documents to district committees.
conclusion
The steps taken by the government are commendable, but strict monitoring and regular action are necessary to make it effective. Private schools should work as education, not business but as a service.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the recently announced initiative by the Government of Jharkhand. However, it may take time to apply and make it effective. Readers are advised to contact their local administration and learn the actual status of the plan.
