Bengaluru, February 28, 2025 – The enforcement of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s age criterion for Class 1 admissions has sparked widespread concern among parents in Karnataka. The rule mandates that children must be at least six years old by June 1 of the academic year they enter Class 1. This decision, announced in November 2022, has left nearly five lakh children across the state in a state of uncertainty.

Background and Policy Shift

Previously, the Karnataka BJP government had relaxed the rules, allowing students under six years to proceed to Class 1. This relaxation was provided following protests from parents and was applicable for the academic years 2023-24 and 2024-25. However, the government decided to postpone the implementation of the new age criterion to the academic year 2025-26.

Impact on Families

Parents argue that the sudden enforcement of the age criterion is unfair to children who had already begun their pre-primary education under the previous system.

Financial and Emotional Burden

The financial burden on families is significant. Parents have bear an extra year of school fees.

Parents are particularly concerned about the psychological effects on children, who will see their peers progress while they are held back.

Calls for Policy Reconsideration

Parents are urging the government to reconsider the policy and provide a relaxation period for children already in the system.

Comparisons with Other States

Parents also point out that states like Delhi, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh have implemented relaxations for children already enrolled in the system. They argue that Karnataka should follow suit to avoid further distress to families.

Conclusion

As the debate continues, nearly five lakh children and their families in Karnataka await a resolution. The enforcement of the Class I age restriction rule has brought to light the need for careful consideration and planning in implementing educational policies, ensuring that the well-being of children and their families is prioritized.

  Class I Age Restriction Rule, National Education Policy, NEP