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Delhi’s new school rules bar private institutions from forcing purchases of books and uniforms from specific vendors. Violations will invite strict action, the DoE has warned
The DoE has reiterated that private schools are expected to function on a ‘no profit, no loss’ basis.
The Directorate of Education (DoE) has issued one of its strictest directives yet, aiming to curb the exploitation of parents by private schools in Delhi, particularly with the new academic session approaching. The administration has made it clear that education cannot be treated as a commercial enterprise, and any form of monopoly under its cover will not be tolerated.
The move follows repeated complaints from parents alleging that schools were compelling them to purchase books, stationery, and uniforms from specific vendors at inflated prices. Items such as notebooks, bags, belts, shoes, and other essentials were reportedly being sold at rates significantly higher than those available in the open market.
The DoE has now categorically stated that no school can force parents or students to buy from any particular shop, seller, or organisation.
Restrictions On Books And Study Material
Under the new guidelines, schools are required to use only textbooks prescribed by their respective boards, including CBSE, ICSE, or the state board. They are prohibited from pushing additional or unnecessary study material onto students.
Furthermore, schools must display the complete list of prescribed books for all classes on their notice boards as well as on their official websites before the academic session begins, ensuring transparency for parents.
Uniform Rules Tightened
Addressing another common concern, the DoE has restricted frequent changes in school uniforms. Schools can no longer alter the design or colour of uniforms every year or at short intervals. Once finalised, a uniform must remain unchanged for at least three years.
In addition, schools are required to publicly share detailed specifications of the uniform, including fabric and design, allowing parents the freedom to purchase or stitch it from any vendor of their choice.
Ending Vendor Monopoly
To further dismantle monopolistic practices, all schools must now provide details of at least five different shops or vendors in their locality where school-related items are available. These details must include names, addresses, and contact numbers.
However, parents are not restricted to these options and are free to make purchases from any shop they prefer.
The DoE has reiterated that private schools are expected to function on a ‘no profit, no loss’ basis, that is, operating only to cover actual costs, without generating any surplus or incurring losses. Any attempt to generate commercial profit within school premises or under the school’s name has been declared illegal. Schools are also barred from promoting any specific brand on their campuses.
Complaint Mechanism And Action
To ensure compliance, a nodal officer has been appointed. Parents can report violations directly to Dr Rajpal Singh, Deputy Director of Education, at 9818154069 between 9 am and 6 pm on working days.
The DoE has warned that strict action will be taken against schools found violating these norms, under provisions of the Delhi School Education Act, 1973.
Delhi, India, India
April 02, 2026, 14:07 IST
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