Several private aided and unaided schools in Karnataka are facing a textbook shortage two months into the academic year. With the second indent yet to begin, students in some schools are relying on Xerox copies, while school associations seek urgent action.
The academic year in Karnataka began two months ago, but several private aided and unaided schools are still waiting for their full set of textbooks. According to a report by Deccan Herald, the shortage is making it difficult for schools to conduct regular classes, with students in some institutions having to rely on photocopies of textbooks. Despite paying 100% of the required amount in advance under the first indent, many schools have not received textbooks for several subjects.
Private school associations have also expressed concern that the government has not yet initiated the second round of textbook orders, known as the second indent, which was expected to begin in June.
Students Forced To Use Photocopies
The textbook shortage has forced students in several schools to use photocopies of the available books to attend their classes.
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D Shashi Kumar, General Secretary of the Karnataka Associated Managements of English Medium Schools (KAMS), highlighted the difficulties faced by schools.
"The first indent was called in January. We submitted our details based on last year's student numbers and paid the full amount. But it is normal for student numbers to change after the academic year begins. That is why a second indent is called. This year, they haven't called for the second indent, and it is creating a huge problem for conducting daily classes," he said.
Schools Appeal To Education Department
The Organisation for Unaided Recognised Schools has submitted a letter to the Commissioner of School Education, expressing concern over the delay and seeking immediate action.
"This is not a small issue to be ignored. Many schools haven't received their books even though they placed orders and paid in full back in January. Schools are also unable to submit a 'Second Indent' for additional books," the organisation said in its letter.
Schools Seek District-Level Transfer Of Books
Shashi Kumar suggested that textbooks could be redistributed between schools based on their current student strength. He pointed out that while some schools have more students this year, others have fewer than expected.
Since student details are available on the Student Achievement Tracking System (SATS), he suggested that surplus textbooks from schools with fewer students could be transferred to schools with a greater requirement at the Deputy Director of Public Instruction (DDPI) level.
"Instead of making everyone wait for new books, this system should be implemented," Shashi Kumar said.
Parents who have already paid for the textbooks are also questioning school managements over the delay.
"Parents have paid the money, so they won't accept any excuse we give them," he said.
Meanwhile, the Organisation for Unaided Recognised Schools has made another request. It said that if the Karnataka Textbook Society (KTBS) is unable to supply the textbooks on time, the government should ensure that the books are made available for purchase in the open market.
