Action Sought Against Schools Violating NCPCR and CBSE Directives
The Vadodara Parents Association (VPA) has urged authorities to take strict action against schools that continue to prescribe textbooks other than those published by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and the Gujarat Council of Educational Research and Training (GCERT).
On Monday, VPA office-bearers submitted a memorandum to the Vadodara district education officer (DEO), requesting immediate intervention and the issuance of fresh directives ensuring that only NCERT/GCERT books are prescribed for the upcoming academic year.
CBSE and NCPCR Directives on Textbooks
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a circular mandating that all affiliated schools must prescribe only NCERT or State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) textbooks for Classes 1 to 12. Despite this, some schools continue to prescribe books from private publishers, causing financial strain on parents.
Additionally, the National Commission for the Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has directed that no child should face discrimination or harassment for carrying NCERT-prescribed books. The NCPCR chairperson emphasized that the continued prescription of private publishers’ books violates students’ rights to quality education under the Right to Education (RTE) Act.
Financial Burden on Parents
The VPA highlighted concerns about the financial burden placed on parents when schools mandate books from private publishers instead of government-approved textbooks. NCERT books are affordable and widely accessible, including free online availability, ensuring that all students receive standardized education without unnecessary costs.
A fresh directive from the DEO would reinforce compliance with these guidelines and help prevent schools from imposing additional expenses on parents.
Call for Immediate Action
The Vadodara Parents Association insists that strict measures be taken against schools that continue to violate CBSE and NCPCR regulations. Ensuring adherence to prescribed educational guidelines is essential to maintaining fair access to education and upholding students’ rights.
Authorities are expected to review the issue and take necessary steps to enforce compliance across all schools in Vadodara.
