Booksellers Protest Against New PSEB Textbook Policy
Booksellers at Mai Hiran Gate, represented by the Punjab Books Distributors Association, have strongly opposed the Punjab Government's decision to sell Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) textbooks via the PSEB Pustak Portal. This e-commerce platform allows students, parents, and schools to order PSEB-authored and printed textbooks directly online at a 15% discount.
During a press conference at the Jalandhar Press Club, traders alleged that the new policy would strip hundreds of booksellers across Punjab of their livelihoods. They also claimed that it would impose an additional burden on teachers and school staff, who would be required to manage textbook distribution.
Booksellers Claim Decades of Service Ignored
The association stated that booksellers have been selling PSEB textbooks for nearly 50 to 60 years. Recently, they were denied supply from Board depots following a government circular. Under the new system, textbooks will be supplied directly to schools, where teachers or staff will sell them to students via the Pustak Portal.
The traders warned that this move would leave many booksellers unemployed, adversely affecting their families. They also expressed concern that teachers would have to divert their focus from academics to handle textbook distribution and sales, potentially impacting classroom teaching quality.
Booksellers Highlight Their Role in Timely Supply
The association emphasized that booksellers have historically played a vital role in ensuring the timely availability of textbooks, especially during shortages. They cautioned that any delay in direct supply to schools could disrupt students' studies.
The Punjab Books Distributors Association urged the government to roll back the policy and continue supporting the existing network of booksellers to maintain smooth textbook distribution.
