Karnataka Schools to Receive 2026-27 Textbooks Before Reopening: KTBS

Karnataka schools are set to receive 2026-27 textbooks before reopening, as over 85% of printing work has been completed. The government has approved ₹264.62 crore for free textbook distribution benefiting more than 61 lakh students.

For lakhs of students across Karnataka, the wait for new textbooks is likely to end soon. The printing process for the 2026-27 academic year has entered its final stage, and the distribution of books to schools has already begun across the state. Officials have assured that students will receive their textbooks before schools reopen, ensuring that classroom activities begin without disruption.

Although the tender process witnessed a slight delay earlier this year, printing operations continued without interruption. As a result, more than 85 per cent of the work has already been completed. Officials said the remaining 10 to 15 per cent of printing is expected to be finished within the next week. In addition, over 75 per cent of the printed textbooks have already been transported to taluk-level warehouses. The Karnataka Textbook Society (KTBS) confirmed that books have been dispatched from these warehouses directly to schools from May 18 onwards.

₹264.62 Crore Approved for Free Textbook Distribution

Every year, the Karnataka government prints and distributes free textbooks to students from Classes 1 to 10 to encourage enrolment and strengthen government schools. From the 2026-27 academic session, the scheme has been expanded to include students studying in government PU colleges as well as pre-primary children enrolled in government schools offering LKG and UKG classes.

Apart from textbooks, students will also receive workbooks and diaries under the scheme.

This year, the total demand stands at 6,74,58,588 books. The distribution will cover students from Classes 1 to 12 studying in nearly 46,000 government schools, more than 1,320 government PU colleges, and aided institutions across Karnataka. Officials said around 9.78 lakh books from last year’s leftover stock will be reused, while the remaining requirement is being met through fresh printing.

The massive printing and supply work has been divided among 22 different printers. To ensure smooth and timely delivery, the government has approved a budget of ₹264.62 crore, which is expected to benefit more than 61 lakh students statewide.

Private Schools Also Place Orders

Unaided private schools have also placed orders for textbooks after paying a 25 per cent advance. The government will print and supply books for these institutions as well. However, the schools will have to pay the remaining 75 per cent amount before collecting the textbooks.

KTBS Warns Printers Against Delays

KTBS Managing Director MP Madegowda said printers have been instructed to supply textbooks to taluk warehouses according to their assigned work orders and ensure that dispatches to schools begin immediately.

“Printers are supplying the textbooks to taluk warehouses as per their work orders. We have instructed them to start sending books to schools from May 18. The printing and supply process will be almost complete by the time schools reopen. If any printer causes delays, fines and legal action will be initiated as per the rules,” he said.