SHIMLA: The Himachal Pradesh Directorate of School Education has issued strict guidelines prohibiting private schools across the state from selling uniforms, ties, belts, badges, shoes, and other educational materials within their premises.
In a directive issued to all District Deputy Directors, the department stated that conducting such commercial activities inside school campuses is against the rules. The authorities warned that non-compliance would invite strict disciplinary action, which could extend to the cancellation of the institution’s recognition or affiliation if necessary.
The Directorate clarified that no private school can pressure students or parents to purchase uniforms, stationery, or shoes directly from the school campus. Furthermore, schools cannot compel parents to buy these items from any specific private vendor or shop designated by the management. Parents remain entirely free to purchase uniforms and required supplies from any market or shop of their choice.
However, the Directorate made an exception for standard academic materials. The sale of textbooks and practical workbooks prescribed directly by the education board will not be classified as a commercial activity. Schools are permitted to make board-approved textbooks and practical notebooks available on campus within the regulatory framework.
The primary objective of this order, issued by the Director of Education, is to curb arbitrary practices by private school managements and alleviate the additional financial burden placed on parents. All private school managements have been instructed to strictly comply with the orders without exception.
