MP News: Hundreds of Schools in Gwalior-Chambal Face Closure, Thousands of Students at Risk

Hundreds of schools in Gwalior-Chambal division are on the verge of closure, putting the future of thousands of students at stake. If the state government does not relax its regulations, many schools may be forced to shut down from April 1, when the new academic session begins. The primary reason for this situation is that school operators have not applied for renewal of their recognition, leading to uncertainty over their continued operation.

41,000 Students Affected, No Policy for RTE Transfers

According to reports, nearly 41,000 students are currently enrolled in the affected schools. However, there is no clear policy in place for shifting students, especially those studying under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, to other schools. The education department has yet to devise a concrete plan to accommodate these students. As per existing rules, students from closed schools can be transferred to nearby government or grant-in-aid schools like regular students.

This uncertainty is particularly worrying for families from economically weaker sections, including daily wage workers and private-sector employees, whose children are studying under the RTE quota. These families now face the risk of their children being left without proper schooling if a suitable alternative is not provided in time.

School Operators Seek Government Relaxation

Many private schools, including Daffodils School, have expressed concerns over the situation. The school’s management highlighted that they have been operating as a charitable institution for over 25 years, yet they face complaints from parents about fees. Additionally, 18 students are currently studying under the RTE scheme at their institution.

Most school operators have not yet informed parents about the impending closures, as they hope for government intervention. Some schools may continue admissions in anticipation of relaxations from the government, but if relief is not granted, both parents and students may find themselves in a difficult situation.

With the new academic session just days away, the education department and the government will need to act swiftly to prevent a major educational crisis in the region.