Introduction to the NHRC action

The National Human Rights Commission NHRC has issued notices to the Centre and various State governments over concerns regarding the poor adoption of NCERT and SCERT textbooks in private schools. The action follows a complaint alleging that deviation from prescribed textbooks is placing an undue financial burden on families.

The issue also raises questions about compliance with the National Education Policy NEP, which emphasises accessibility, affordability, and standardisation in school education.

What triggered the NHRC notice

The NHRC’s intervention was prompted by a complaint that highlighted key concerns:

• Private schools replacing NCERT and SCERT textbooks with privately published materials
• Significant increase in costs borne by parents
• Possible violation of NEP guidelines related to standardised education resources

The complaint argued that such practices create inequity in access to education and undermine policy objectives.

NCERT and SCERT textbooks explained

NCERT textbooks

Published by the National Council of Educational Research and Training, these books are:

• Widely used across central and affiliated schools
• Designed to ensure uniform curriculum standards
• Priced affordably for broader accessibility

SCERT textbooks

Developed by State Councils of Educational Research and Training, these books:

• Align with state specific curriculum requirements
• Follow national education guidelines
• Are typically subsidised or low cost

Both NCERT and SCERT books are considered essential for maintaining consistency in education quality.

Allegations against private schools

The complaint suggests that some private schools:

• Mandate purchase of costly private textbooks and study materials
• Do not adhere to recommended NCERT or SCERT books
• Increase financial burden on parents, especially middle class families

This practice may lead to significant differences in educational costs between institutions.

Financial burden on families

One of the central concerns highlighted is the economic pressure on parents.

Issues include:

• Higher prices of private textbooks compared to NCERT SCERT books
• Requirement to buy multiple supplementary materials
• Lack of flexibility in choosing study resources

For many families, this increases the overall cost of schooling, making education less affordable.

NEP guidelines and compliance concerns

The National Education Policy NEP aims to ensure:

• Affordable and accessible education
• Standardised curriculum across schools
• Reduction of unnecessary academic burden
• Equitable learning opportunities

If schools deviate significantly from prescribed textbooks, it raises concerns about policy compliance and uniformity.

Role of NHRC in the matter

The NHRC’s involvement indicates that the issue is being viewed through the lens of:

• Right to education as a human right
• Fair access to educational resources
• Protection of citizens from exploitative practices

By issuing notices, the NHRC has sought responses from authorities to examine the matter in detail.

Government and regulatory responsibilities

Following the NHRC notice, the Centre and State governments may need to:

• Review existing guidelines for textbook usage
• Ensure compliance among private schools
• Strengthen monitoring mechanisms
• Address grievances raised by parents

Regulatory clarity is essential to balance autonomy of schools with public interest.

Debate over private vs standard textbooks

The issue also raises a broader debate:

Arguments for private textbooks

• Customised content and teaching approaches
• Additional practice material
• Brand based education models

Arguments for NCERT SCERT textbooks

• Affordability and accessibility
• Standardised curriculum
• Alignment with national education goals

Balancing these perspectives remains a key challenge for policymakers.

Impact on education system

If left unaddressed, such practices could lead to:

• Increased inequality in education access
• Financial strain on families
• Fragmentation of curriculum standards
• Reduced trust in education regulation

Ensuring fairness and transparency is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the system.

Possible outcomes of the NHRC notice

The NHRC’s action may result in:

• Clarifications from Centre and States
• Policy adjustments or stricter enforcement
• Guidelines on textbook pricing and usage
• Greater accountability for private schools

The final outcome will depend on responses and further investigation.

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