Punjab Newsline | Mohali
Punjab Cabinet has approved an ordinance that will prohibit private educational institutions in the state from increasing tuition fees by more than 5 percent annually. The ordinance has now been sent to the Governor for final approval.
Announcing the decision after the Cabinet meeting, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said the move is aimed at providing relief to parents and ensuring transparency in school fee structures.
According to the ministers, any school that has increased its fees by more than 15 percent over the past 36 months will be required to refund the excess amount collected from parents.
The government has also laid down a detailed mechanism for schools seeking a fee hike beyond the 5 percent cap. Such institutions will have to submit an application at least six months in advance, explaining the reasons for the proposed increase. Schools will also be required to conduct a financial audit and provide complete details of expenditures, including investments in new infrastructure, facilities, or services.
A committee comprising the Divisional Commissioner, two District Education Officers (DEOs), and a financial expert will examine such requests. Approval for a higher fee increase will not be automatic, and the final decision will be based on the findings of the financial audit.
The ordinance further mandates that all schools must notify parents about the approved fee structure at least two months before the start of every academic session.
The new regulations will apply to all schools operating under the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB), CBSE, ICSE, and international education boards. The state government said the measure is intended to curb arbitrary fee hikes while ensuring that schools can seek justified increases through a transparent and accountable process.
