Ch'ngr: 1,274 seats available under RTE act

Under Right to Education Act (RTE Act), 1,274 seats are available in LKG and first standard for children from economically backward families in the district.

Last year 551 students availed the benefit in the district in 87 schools. The break-up is Chamarajanagar taluk-29, Gundlupet-10, Kollegal-20, Yalandur-12 and 16 schools in Hanur block.

The government reimburses Rs 5,924 to Rs 11,848 to schools (aided and unaided) per student per year depending upon the fee structure of the respective school. For the current year the deputy director for education received Rs 33,05,592 and it has been forwarded to the education blocks. The amount would be deposited in the bank accounts of the respective schools.

The list of schools along with number of seats available under RTE Act (25 per cent of total seats available) have been displayed at all offices of block education officers. They can also be viewed on the education department website. The process of filing applications has begun and would end on February 5. Caste and income certificates have to be submitted along with the application.

If the school managements refuse to accept applications or provide admission to students under RTE Act, parents can complain with the BEO or even with the deputy commissioner.

No action against erring schools

Last year the achievement under RTE Act in the district has been poor. Even publicity by the education department was not adequate.

Some prestigious unaided colleges have not complied with the Act. However, no action has been taken against them, despite complaints as they had the support of some elected representatives.

Even in the district headquarters, two schools did not admit students under the Act, said Raviprakash, a parent.

Deputy director N Chandregowda said a meeting of managements of aided and unaided schools have been already held and that he had hopes to achieve the target this coming year.