Telangana Speeds Up 25% Free School Quota for Poor Students
Hyderabad: The Telangana government has stepped up efforts to implement a 25% free-seat quota for children from economically weaker and disadvantaged backgrounds in private schools, following renewed pressure over delays in implementing the Right to Education (RTE) Act.
The development comes days after the Supreme Court expressed concern over delays by several states in implementing RTE provisions. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) subsequently sought clarification from the Telangana government on the status of the scheme.
During a visit to Delhi, Telangana Director of School Education Naveen Nicholas assured the commission that the state would follow the Supreme Court’s guidelines for implementing the quota.
Under Section 12(1)(c) of the RTE Act, 25% of seats at the entry-level, including Class 1, in private schools are to be reserved for children from weaker and disadvantaged sections, with eligible students receiving education free of charge.
Supreme Court Guidelines for Implementation
The Supreme Court issued implementation guidelines in January, including the creation of a dedicated portal, online applications, allocation of seats through a lottery system and a special grievance cell to address complaints.
The NCPCR was also tasked with monitoring and reviewing implementation of the scheme. According to the report, states including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Haryana and Tamil Nadu have already framed rules and begun implementing the policy.
Telangana’s Previous Efforts
The implementation of the RTE Act in Telangana was also challenged through a petition filed before the state High Court last year. During the proceedings, the Education Department assured the court that it would implement the relevant RTE provisions.
In July 2025, then Education Secretary Yogita Rana directed authorities to facilitate private-school admissions for children from 96 habitations that did not have government schools. However, the directive was reportedly only forwarded to district education officers and did not lead to significant implementation.
According to Education Department sources cited in the report, only 180 children secured admission under the scheme during the 2025-26 and 2026-27 academic years.
With the Supreme Court now seeking details on implementation, officials have begun working on guidelines aimed at ensuring eligible children can access free education in private schools.
The NCPCR has been directed to appear in person before the Supreme Court on October 27 and submit a report on the current status of the 25% quota’s implementation.