UP Board Initiates Strict Drive to Enforce Authorised Textbook Use in Schools
The Uttar Pradesh Secondary Education Board (UPSEB) has mandated a special enforcement drive, requiring its staff to conduct continuous inspections of schools until April 15. This initiative aims to ensure that students purchase only textbooks printed by publishers authorised by the board, eliminating the use of unauthorised or pirated materials.
Objective: Affordable and High-Quality Education
UPSEB Secretary Bhagwati Singh emphasized that the measure is designed to guarantee the availability of high-quality textbooks at affordable rates, thereby preventing unnecessary financial burdens on parents. The board has authorised three publishers for this purpose: Pitambara Books Private Limited based in Jhansi, Pioneer Printers from Agra, and Singhal Agencies located in Lucknow. Collectively, these publishers have produced 82 textbooks for classes nine through twelve.
Strict Inspections and Penal Actions
Singh has directed all district inspectors of schools (DIOS), along with deputy and joint education directors, to perform ongoing inspections. They are instructed to take strict punitive action, in accordance with established rules, against any institution—including teachers, principals, and management—found coercing students to buy unauthorised books or guides. The board holds the copyright for all 82 textbooks, reinforcing its authority in this matter.
Legal Measures Against Piracy and Counterfeiting
In cases where unauthorised printers or booksellers are discovered engaging in piracy or duplication, particularly by selling counterfeit textbooks at inflated prices, officials are to collaborate with relevant departments. This includes joint legal actions with police, administration, commercial tax, and income tax authorities to curb such illegal activities effectively.
Identifying Authorised Textbooks
Officials have been advised to meticulously distinguish between authorised and unauthorised books. Authorised textbooks recommended by UPSEB feature a unique seven-digit serial number, printed in ultraviolet fluorescent red ink on the front page. This security measure helps in verifying authenticity and preventing fraud.
Pricing Structure and Cost Comparison
The board has set affordable prices for the authorised textbooks to ensure accessibility. A set of 10 books for class nine is priced at Rs 393, while class 10 books cost Rs 440 for a set. For class 11, which includes seven books, the price is Rs 458, and class 12 students pay Rs 412 for a set of eight books. In contrast, Singh noted that unauthorised textbooks and guidebooks are being circulated at prices 149% to 361% higher than UPSEB's prescribed rates, highlighting the financial exploitation faced by parents.
Addressing Unauthorised Circulation
Singh stated that UPSEB has become aware of the inappropriate circulation and use of unauthorised textbooks within schools. Certain institutions and booksellers, driven by private interests, have introduced materials from unauthorised private publishers. This practice not only violates board regulations but also compromises educational standards and increases costs for families.
This comprehensive drive underscores UPSEB's commitment to maintaining educational integrity and affordability across Uttar Pradesh, ensuring that students receive quality learning materials without undue financial strain.
