Lucknow Private Schools Ban Mandatory Book and Stationery Purchases from Specific Brands
The Unaided Private Schools Association (UPSA) made a significant announcement on Sunday, declaring that private schools across Lucknow will no longer compel parents to purchase textbooks and stationery from particular brands or designated stores. This decision marks a substantial shift in school policies aimed at reducing financial burdens on families.
Association Meeting Establishes New Guidelines
The policy change was formalized during a UPSA meeting that brought together representatives from more than 200 private educational institutions in the city. During the gathering, association leaders emphasized that all member schools are in full compliance with the Unaided Private Schools Association Fee Regulation Act, which governs financial practices within the sector.
"For the past seven years, since the Act came into force, fee increases in private schools have been calculated based on 5% plus the Consumer Price Index (CPI)," explained UPSA president Anil Agarwal. "Over the previous six years, the maximum increase has been limited to 10%, and for the upcoming academic year 2026–27, the total increase has been officially fixed at 7.5%."
Addressing Parental Concerns About Educational Materials
Recognizing the challenges parents face regarding educational supplies, UPSA officials committed to minimizing frequent textbook changes. In schools following ICSE and CBSE curricula, specific efforts will be made to maintain consistency in textbooks until official syllabus revisions occur at the board level.
"Considering the difficulties parents encounter with books and stationery, private schools will actively work to ensure that textbooks are not altered frequently," Agarwal added, highlighting the association's commitment to educational stability and cost predictability for families.
Advocacy for Reduced GST on Educational Materials
The association also plans to petition government authorities regarding Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates affecting educational materials. Currently, paper used for school-related items carries an 18% GST rate, which significantly contributes to overall educational expenses.
"The association will formally request the government to rationalize GST, which currently stands at 18% on paper used for school-related items," stated UPSA senior vice-president and CBSE city coordinator Jawaid Alam Khan. "This adjustment would help reduce the overall cost burden on parents and make education more accessible."
Broader Implications for Educational Affordability
These policy changes represent a comprehensive approach to addressing educational affordability concerns in Lucknow's private school sector. By eliminating mandatory purchases from specific vendors, capping fee increases, and advocating for tax reforms, the UPSA aims to create a more transparent and financially manageable educational environment for families throughout the city.
The association's initiatives demonstrate a growing awareness of economic pressures facing parents and a commitment to implementing practical solutions that balance educational quality with financial accessibility.
