Congress MP Rajani Patil Raises Alarm Over Soaring Education Costs and Poor State of Government Schools

Calls for Stronger Enforcement of EWS Quota Under Right to Education Act​

New Delhi, April 1 – Congress MP Rajani Ashokrao Patil, speaking in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, voiced serious concerns over the rising cost of early childhood education in metro cities and the declining standards in government-run schools. She called for stricter enforcement of the 25% reservation for economically weaker sections (EWS) in private schools under the Right to Education (RTE) Act to ensure educational inclusivity.

"Education is a fundamental right, yet it is becoming increasingly inaccessible," Patil said, drawing attention to recent surveys showing parents spending anywhere from ₹40,000 to ₹2 lakh annually on nursery and lower kindergarten (LKG) education.

Rising Burden on Middle and Lower-Middle Class Families​

Patil emphasized that apart from school fees, the additional cost of after-school tuitions is placing an immense financial strain on middle- and lower-income families. "Quality education is fast becoming a privilege rather than a right," she warned.

Government Schools Falling Behind​

Highlighting the alarming condition of government schools, Patil pointed to findings from the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), which indicate declining enrolment rates. She attributed this to substandard infrastructure, a shortage of trained teachers, and lack of essential resources.

"Parents, even those facing financial hardship, are increasingly opting for private schools because government institutions are failing to deliver on their promise of affordable quality education," she noted.

Lack of Basic Facilities a Major Deterrent​

Patil criticized the deteriorating state of government school facilities, stating that many are grappling with issues like lack of clean drinking water, non-functional classrooms, and absence of digital tools. These shortcomings are compelling parents to either pay high private school fees or compromise their child's educational future.

Urges Revival of RTE Act Enforcement​

To address the widening educational divide, Patil referred to the UPA government’s introduction of the RTE Act in 2009, which mandates a 25% reservation for EWS and disadvantaged groups in private schools.

While the legislation was a progressive step towards inclusive education, Patil alleged its implementation has weakened across several states due to poor monitoring and limited awareness among parents. “Schools often resist admitting EWS students, and government reimbursements are frequently delayed,” she said.

She concluded by urging stronger enforcement mechanisms to uphold the EWS provision under the RTE Act, stating, “Strengthening this provision is crucial for making education inclusive and reducing inequality.”