The State Government has published timetable for admission to Class 1 and Pre-School classes under Section 12(1)(G) of the Right to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 ( RTE 2009). This provision ensures that 25% of places in unaided private schools are reserved for children from disadvantaged groups and weaker sections.

A letter from the Director General of School Education, Kanchan Verma, addressed to all district magistrates emphasizes compliance with previous instructions and guidelines, ensuring timely completion of the admission process.

HT obtained a copy of the letter, which notes that delays in some districts in previous sessions, with processes stretching into July and August, hampered proper planning.

To address these issues, a revised schedule for the 2025-2026 session has been established. The timeline includes clear application dates, verification deadlines and lottery dates, with final completion of the admission process set for March 31, 2025. Academic sessions for these children are expected to begin on April 1, 2025.

Admission phases:

First phase: from December 1 to 19, 2024

Second phase: January 1 to 19, 2025

Third phase: February 1 to 19, 2025

Fourth phase: March 1 to 19, 2025

The letter also highlights the importance of inter-ministerial coordination to ensure effective implementation of RTE provisions.

This includes targeted advertising campaigns, creation of district and block-level help desks, and preparation of necessary documents, such as age and caste certificates.

Local authorities were tasked with distributing brochures and setting up public information campaigns to reach eligible families. Additionally, Block Education Officers and local teams will be responsible for contacting parents and ensuring applications are submitted on time.

The aim is to enroll 100% of eligible children in RTE designated seats by the end of March 2025, with regular classes starting on April 1, 2025.

All officials have been tasked with ensuring smooth implementation and ensuring that every eligible child benefits from the program.

For further details, stakeholders can contact the district education office or block education officer, as per the letter.