Maharashtra Government Expands Grant Policy for Private Schools

Strategic Insights -

The Maharashtra government has approved a major expansion of the stepwise grant policy for private unaided and partially aided schools, providing relief to over 52,000 teachers and non-teaching staff across the state. The policy, first introduced in 2009, has been expanded gradually over the years, and the latest order is expected to cost the state exchequer around Rs.970 crore annually. The decision will benefit schools that meet strict eligibility conditions, including maintaining Aadhaar-based verification of students and implementing biometric attendance systems.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 52,000 teachers and non-teaching staff across the state will benefit from the expanded grant policy.
  • The policy has been expanded to include 2,079 schools with 15,859 staff, 1,871 schools with 13,959 staff, and 1,894 schools with 19,744 staff.
  • 231 newly eligible schools with 2,714 staff will receive 20% funding for the first time.
  • Schools must maintain Aadhaar-based verification of students, implement biometric or face-recognition attendance systems for teachers and pupils, and follow reservation policies in recruitment.
  • Minimum student strength has been fixed at 20 per division in hilly and remote areas, and 30 in other regions.
  • Schools must upload and verify all teacher and staff records, along with Aadhaar details, on the state's SARAL online system to receive state support.
  • Schools failing to meet norms will be treated as self-financed institutions and will not receive state support.

Statistics:

  • 52,000 teachers and non-teaching staff will benefit from the expanded grant policy.
  • 2,079 schools with 15,859 staff will move up to 40% grant instalment.
  • 1,871 schools with 13,959 staff will move up to 60% grant instalment.
  • 1,894 schools with 19,744 staff will move up to 80% grant instalment.
  • 231 newly eligible schools with 2,714 staff will receive 20% funding for the first time.
  • The grant policy will cost the state exchequer around Rs.970 crore annually.
  • The decision is effective August 1, 2025.

Sources:

  • Hindustan Times, "Maharashtra approves expansion of stepwise grant policy for private unaided and partially aided schools" [Ref: Hindustan Times, 25 Aug 2024]