The distribution of the 'Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Vidyarthi Mitra' kits for government school students in Andhra Pradesh is likely to be delayed by about a month due to global supply disruptions and rising raw material costs.
Reasons for the Delay
Samagra Shiksha state project director B Srinivasa Rao stated that international war-like conditions, crude oil and gas shortages, and disruptions in transport networks have adversely affected the supply chain for key materials used in manufacturing school kits. Officials noted that the crisis has led to a steep increase in the prices of crude-based raw materials and shortages of fiber, impacting the production of uniforms, school bags, shoes, and related items. Suppliers have requested additional time to complete deliveries.
Government Response and Timeline
Despite the delay in some kit components, the state government assured that efforts are underway to ensure that textbooks and notebooks are supplied by June 12, when schools reopen after the summer break. Authorities are targeting the distribution of the remaining kit items, including uniforms, shoes, and bags, by the time of the proposed Mega Parent-Teacher Meeting (PTM). Rao added that senior officials are closely monitoring the procurement and supply process, with field visits to manufacturing units and regular reviews being conducted with suppliers.
Priority Measures
Andhra Pradesh has also sought priority in material supply over pending orders from other states to expedite deliveries. The state government is exploring all possible avenues to minimize the delay and ensure students receive their kits as soon as possible.
