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Himachal Private Schools Commercial Activities Ban: Govt cracks down on uniform, accessory sales
Shimla, Feb 28,
In a move set to directly ease the financial burden on thousands of middle-class families, the Himachal Pradesh Education Department has issued strict directions prohibiting privately managed schools from engaging in commercial activities within their campuses. The order comes amid growing complaints from parents about forced purchases and rising education costs, with authorities warning that any violation could lead to cancellation of school affiliation.
According to a communication issued by the Directorate of School Education, Himachal Pradesh, Shimla, the department has invoked Rule 16.3.12(a) under the norms governing private educational institutions to clearly bar schools from selling or facilitating the sale of uniforms, shoes, ties, belts, badges and similar items within school premises. The directive also prohibits schools from compelling students or parents to purchase these items from specific vendors, particularly those operating within or in association with school campuses.
The action follows multiple complaints received by the department alleging that several private schools were effectively running vendor networks, forcing parents to buy prescribed items from designated shops and, in some cases, functioning as intermediaries to earn commissions. The department has emphasized that educational institutions are meant solely for academic purposes and not for commercial gain, and any deviation from this principle will attract strict action.
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Issuing a clear warning, the department has stated that schools found indulging in such commercial practices risk losing their affiliation. However, it has clarified that the sale of textbooks and practical notebooks prescribed by the Board within school premises will not be treated as a commercial activity under the rules.
The communication has been circulated to all Deputy Directors of Elementary and Higher Education, along with private school managements, directing them to ensure strict compliance. Authorities have also been tasked with monitoring adherence to the guidelines and initiating action in case of violations.
The directive comes at a time when the increasing preference for private schooling in Himachal Pradesh has significantly strained household budgets, with parents frequently raising concerns over high fees coupled with compulsory purchases of uniforms and books through school-linked vendors. In recent years, some institutions have also faced scrutiny over compliance issues, including violations of employee welfare provisions such as maternity benefits, further intensifying the need for tighter regulation.
With these fresh instructions, the State aims to bring greater transparency and fairness in the functioning of private schools while protecting the financial interests of parents and ensuring that educational institutions remain focused on their primary role of imparting education rather than engaging in profit-driven activities.
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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
