Sri Vijaya Puram, April 2: Authorities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have directed all private schools to strictly implement the 25 percent reservation for children from weaker sections and disadvantaged groups under provisions of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, reinforcing compliance with mandatory admission norms.
The directive requires schools to admit eligible students from Class 1 to Class VIII against at least one-fourth of the total strength of each class, ensuring free and compulsory elementary education until completion. The provision also extends to pre-school admissions in institutions offering early education, in line with the amended rules.
Officials stated that the measure aims to ensure equitable access to education for children from economically weaker backgrounds and socially disadvantaged communities residing in the neighbourhood of these institutions. The enforcement of the rule forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen inclusion within the education system.
Parents of eligible children have been instructed to approach designated Zonal Officers in their respective areas to obtain admission forms. The forms will be made available from April 6, initiating the application process for the upcoming academic cycle.
Authorities have set April 10 as the deadline for submission of completed application forms along with required supporting documents. Applications must be submitted directly to the Zonal Officers, who will oversee the admission process under the specified quota.
The directive places responsibility on private schools to ensure adherence to statutory obligations under the RTE framework, which mandates equal educational opportunities irrespective of socio-economic status. Non-compliance with these provisions may attract regulatory scrutiny, as authorities seek to ensure uniform implementation across institutions.
The move comes amid continued emphasis on strengthening foundational education and widening access to schooling in remote and geographically isolated regions such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. By mandating quota-based admissions, the administration aims to address disparities in educational access and ensure that children from disadvantaged groups are not excluded from formal schooling.
Officials reiterated that the process will be monitored through designated administrative channels to ensure transparency and adherence to guidelines. The admission cycle under this provision is expected to conclude following scrutiny of applications submitted within the prescribed timeline.
