Private schools must adhere to Board-prescribed books; SRO 123 compliance mandatory
Srinagar, Nov 19: In a strict enforcement of academic guidelines, the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) has taken action against private schools found using non-Board-approved textbooks.
JKBOSE Joint Secretary Shahnaz Chowdary, speaking to media persons as per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, said that four schools will have their affiliation revoked, while eight others have been fined for non-compliance with Board norms.
“We conducted inspections across various districts, and wherever private books were being used, appropriate action has been taken. Eight schools have been penalized, and four will lose their affiliation,” she stated.
Chowdary emphasized that all private schools affiliated with JKBOSE must comply with SRO 123. “Clause 11 explicitly requires that only Board-prescribed books be used in these schools,” she said, noting that JKBOSE textbooks are aligned with NCERT standards to ensure both academic learning and preparation for competitive examinations.
She also highlighted the financial impact on parents due to private publications. “Private books impose a heavy burden, costing thousands of rupees, whereas Board textbooks are priced affordably in hundreds,” she said, advising parents to ensure their children follow the prescribed curriculum.
Regarding the 2020 bag policy aimed at reducing student workload, Chowdary added, “Nursery and primary students should carry no school bags, while students in classes one and two should limit their bag weight to 1–1.3 kilograms. Education should remain stress-free and not be dependent on excessive textbooks.”
On past legal challenges, she said, “In 2022, some schools approached the court seeking permission to use private publications. Even then, the Hon’ble court upheld the Board’s authority under Section 26, confirming that schools must follow JKBOSE-approved textbooks.”
To address concerns from parents, grievance cells have been established at the Board’s headquarters and sub-offices. “Parents can submit complaints in writing, and necessary action will be taken promptly,” Chowdary added.
She said that the drive aims to safeguard students’ welfare, ensure affordability, and maintain consistent academic standards in private schools across the Union Territory. (KNC)
