New Delhi, April 1 The Delhi government on Wednesday instructed private, unaided, recognized schools not to force students or parents to purchase books, writing materials, or uniforms from specific vendors, reiterating that families must have the freedom to choose where to buy these items.
The Directorate of Education said on Wednesday that, under the provisions of the Delhi School Education Act and Rules (DSEAR), 1973, and the Delhi Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Rules, 2011, the directive comes in response to complaints that some schools were forcing parents to buy educational materials from designated shops.
According to the order, schools are required to provide parents with clear, class-wise lists of books, writing materials, and uniform specifications in a transparent manner, while ensuring that multiple purchasing options are available in the open market.
The directorate noted that private, unaided, recognized schools operate as charitable institutions on a "no profit, no loss" basis, and therefore, any activity leading to commercialization or financial burden on parents is not permissible.
Describing such practices as a cause of financial strain on families, the directorate directed schools to refrain from enforcing such purchases and ensure that parents are free to procure required materials from any vendor at competitive market prices.
It said that complaints were received from parents and organizations indicating that in some schools, students were allegedly being forced to purchase items such as books, notebooks, uniforms, bags, and accessories like belts and ties from particular vendors, often at higher costs.
Schools must allow students to use books and study materials that are prescribed according to the official curriculum and examination guidelines, it stated.
The directorate added that the procurement of books should follow the guidelines issued by the boards of education (CBSE/ICSE/State Boards/Primary Education Authorities).
It further stated that schools are required to upload the list of books and writing materials introduced this year and make it prominently available on their website to inform parents accordingly.
The order added that the move is aimed at preventing commercial exploitation and promoting fair competition while safeguarding the interests of students and their families.