Delhi Government Shifts to Cash Subsidy for School Uniforms Amid Operational Challenges
In a significant policy change for the 2025 academic year, the Delhi government has informed the Delhi High Court that it will not be able to provide school uniforms in kind to students. Instead, the government will offer cash subsidies to facilitate the purchase of uniforms. This decision stems from operational challenges in distributing physical uniforms, as highlighted by the Education Department.
Background
The issue traces back to a 2013 petition under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, which mandates the provision of free uniforms to students. Despite previous assurances, the Delhi government has cited "operational difficulties" in supplying uniforms in kind. Consequently, the Council of Ministers approved a proposal to revise the subsidy rates and implement a Direct Bank Transfer (DBT) system for disbursal.
Revised Subsidy Rates
Under the new scheme, students will receive the following amounts:
Classes I-V: ₹1,250
Classes VI-VIII: ₹1,500
Classes IX-XII: ₹1,700
These rates, effective from June 10, 2025, apply to students in government and aided schools, as well as to children from the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and Disadvantaged Group (DG) categories studying in private schools under the RTE and Freeship quota.
Operational Challenges and Government's Response
The Directorate of Education has stated that the subsidy amounts were calculated based on a market survey using wholesale prices. A uniform kit at wholesale cost typically includes two sets of clothing, a sweater, socks, shoes, a belt; in the case of girls, it includes a suit or dupatta. Despite these calculations, the government has opted for the DBT mode for at least one more year due to operational challenges in providing uniforms in kind.
Concerns Raised by Advocacy Groups
Justice For All, a Delhi-based NGO, has expressed concerns over the adequacy of the subsidy, arguing that the increase is "meagre" and that the subsidy continues to be misused by families instead of being spent on uniforms. The NGO emphasizes the need for a more effective system to ensure that the funds are utilized appropriately for the intended purpose.
Future Outlook
The matter is scheduled for a hearing in September 2025. The Delhi High Court has consistently directed that uniforms be supplied physically rather than by transferring money to families. It remains to be seen how the court will respond to the government's shift to a cash subsidy system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why has the Delhi government shifted from providing physical school uniforms to offering cash subsidies?
A1: The government cited "operational difficulties" in distributing physical uniforms as the primary reason for the shift to cash subsidies.
Q2: What are the new subsidy rates for school uniforms?
A2: The revised subsidy rates are:Classes I-V: ₹1,250
Classes VI-VIII: ₹1,500
Classes IX-XII: ₹1,700
These rates apply to students in government and aided schools, as well as to children from the EWS and DG categories studying in private schools under the RTE and Freeship quota.
Q3: How will the subsidy be disbursed to students?
A3: The subsidy will be disbursed through the Direct Bank Transfer (DBT) mode, ensuring that funds are directly transferred to the students' accounts.
Q4: What concerns have advocacy groups raised regarding the subsidy?
A4: Advocacy groups like Justice For All have raised concerns that the subsidy amount is insufficient and that funds may not be utilized appropriately for purchasing uniforms. Express
Q5: When is the next hearing scheduled regarding this matter?
A5: The next hearing is scheduled for September 2025.
Published on : 20th August
Published by : Selvi
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