Will Schools in Maharashtra Remain Open Despite Low Enrolment?
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Synopsis
Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, assures that schools will not close due to low student enrolment, emphasizing the government's commitment to education. With 1.8 lakh schools in the state, initiatives are in place to support teachers and enhance educational facilities, particularly in underserved areas.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra will not close schools despite low enrolment.
- 1.8 lakh schools exist, with efforts to maintain operations.
- Teacher placements will be adjusted as needed.
- Initiatives to improve education in underserved areas are underway.
- Funding is available for school repairs and improvements.
Mumbai, July 2 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, addressed the state council on Wednesday, affirming that schools will remain open even with declining student enrolment in certain regions.
He reassured the assembly that necessary measures would be implemented to support teachers facing redundancy due to dwindling student numbers in specific schools.
“Regardless of a decrease in student count, no school will be closed,” Eknath Shinde emphasized during a discussion prompted by a calling attention motion from Vikram Kale (NCP) and others.
The Minister of State for School Education, Pankaj Bhoyar, confirmed that the government has not shut down any schools so far.
Currently, there are approximately 1.8 lakh schools in Maharashtra, with around 18,000 having fewer than 20 students.
“The government is committed to ensuring these schools remain operational and that education is uninterrupted in these regions. Additional teachers will be deployed where student numbers are rising. Teacher release will only occur following this adjustment,” he noted.
Dy CM Shinde revealed that a report from the Central Government indicated the absence of primary schools in 1,650 villages in Maharashtra and no upper primary schools in 6,553 villages.
According to the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, it is the duty of the State Government and local authorities to establish schools in such areas.
Shinde stated that constructions of education facilities in tribal and underserved areas have commenced, with about 47 shelters established under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, providing accommodation for around 4,700 students.
MoS Bhoyar highlighted that the Chief Minister's initiative, 'Majhi Shala, Sundar Shala', has set a world record, underscoring the government's dedication to enhancing educational quality in rural and tribal regions.
“Quality education is also being delivered in government institutions, and numerous students from private schools have begun enrolling in Zilla Parishad and Municipal Corporation schools. Significant funds are available through the District Planning Committee for school repairs, and immediate actions can be taken using legislators’ development funds if necessary,” he added.
Point of View
It is clear that maintaining school operations despite low enrolment is a strategic move to ensure educational access and quality across Maharashtra. The government's proactive approach to adjust teacher placements and improve facilities speaks to its commitment to uphold the right to education.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't schools in Maharashtra be closed?
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stated that despite declining student numbers, the government is committed to keeping schools operational to ensure uninterrupted education.
What is the current situation of schools in Maharashtra?
Maharashtra has approximately 1.8 lakh schools, with around 18,000 having fewer than 20 students. The government is making efforts to support these institutions.
How is the government addressing teacher redundancy?
The government plans to adjust teacher placements in response to changing student numbers, ensuring that no teachers are left without roles immediately.
What initiatives are being taken for underserved areas?
The government has begun constructing educational facilities in tribal and underserved areas, with 47 shelters built to provide accommodation for students.
What funding is available for school improvements?
Funds for school repairs are accessible through the District Planning Committee, with the possibility of utilizing legislators' development funds for immediate needs.
