The Uttarakhand state government has announced a significant policy aimed at regulating coaching centers that prepare students for competitive exams. Education Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat revealed on Saturday that a preliminary draft of this policy has been prepared, with the aim of ensuring fair practices and accountability among coaching centers.
Key Features of the New Policy to Regulate Coaching Centers
Registration and Regulation
- Mandatory Registration: All private coaching centers in Uttarakhand will now be required to register with the state. A registration officer will be appointed in every district to oversee this process.
- Dispute Resolution: In case of disputes between students and coaching center operators, a process for hearing and action will be established. Additionally, an appellate authority will be appointed in each district to resolve such disputes.
- Regulatory Body: A regulatory body will be set up to ensure the proper operation of coaching centers in accordance with the new policy.
Accountability and Penalties
- No Guarantees of Success: Following central government instructions, coaching centers will no longer be allowed to guarantee success in any competitive exam. Violation of this rule can lead to fines and cancellation of their registration.
- Fee Refund Policy: If a student decides to leave a coaching center after paying the full fee, the institute must refund the remaining amount within 10 days. Hostel and mess fees must also be refunded.
- Fee Clarity and Stability: Coaching centers must provide clear information about course fees and issue receipts to students. Fees cannot be changed mid-course.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- First Offense: A fine of Rs 25,000 will be imposed for the first violation of the new rules.
- Second Offense: A fine of Rs 1 lakh will be imposed for the second violation.
- Third Offense: Continued violations will result in the cancellation of the coaching center’s registration.
Implementation and Feedback
The initial draft of the policy has been agreed upon by department officials, educationists, and administrative officials. It has received consent for implementation in Uttarakhand. Dr. Rawat emphasized that suggestions will also be sought from coaching center operators to refine and finalize the policy.
The new policy is a significant step towards regulating coaching centers in Uttarakhand, ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness in their operations. It aims to protect students’ interests and provide a structured framework for resolving disputes and enforcing standards.
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