The Punjab government has introduced a major reform in textbook distribution for private schools. Starting from the 2026-27 academic session, the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) will directly supply books to students of classes I to XII studying in PSEB-affiliated private schools. This effectively ends the long-standing monopoly of authorised agencies and bookshops.
Key Reforms Announced
Announcing the reform, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains stated that the decision was designed to improve transparency, reduce costs for families, and ensure timely availability of textbooks without dependence on intermediaries. He emphasised that schools will strictly ensure that no amount beyond the discounted printed bill price is charged. Schools will only facilitate distribution without generating any revenue. This move is expected to benefit more than 10 lakh students.
Reaffirming the Punjab government's focus on accessible and cost-effective education, Minister Bains highlighted that the 15% discount, which was earlier extended to booksellers, will now directly benefit students through schools. The reform is anticipated to ease the financial burden on families while bringing greater accountability into the system.
Operational Framework
Elaborating on the operational framework, Bains said the school education board has developed a dedicated e-commerce portal to streamline the process. Students will be able to place textbook demands through a mobile application or online portal, while schools will upload class-wise and subject-wise requirements digitally. Each student will be provided with individual login credentials, enabling parents to place orders directly if required.
PSEB Chairman Dr. Amarpal Singh noted that the portal has been integrated with a secure online payment gateway to ensure seamless, transparent, and efficient transactions. He emphasised that the system was specifically designed to eliminate any scope for overcharging and to maintain complete transparency throughout the process.
Based on the orders received, PSEB's regional offices will prepare textbook bundles for timely collection by schools and students. Schools will also be required to submit an undertaking confirming that no additional charges will be levied beyond the prescribed discounted price, ensuring strict compliance with the new policy.
