The Maharashtra Government has announced strict action against private schools that force parents to buy textbooks, uniforms and other educational materials from designated shops. Nodal officers will monitor compliance, investigate complaints and conduct inspections to ensure schools follow government guidelines and protect parents from coercive practices.

Mumbai, July 2, 2026: The Maharashtra government has announced strict action against private schools, including those affiliated with the CBSE and ICSE boards, that compel students to purchase textbooks, uniforms and other educational materials exclusively from designated shops.

Minister of State for School Education Dr Pankaj Bhoyar made the announcement in the Legislative Council while responding to a question raised by MLC Sudhakar Adbale regarding complaints that several schools across the state were forcing parents to buy school supplies from specific vendors.

Government To Tighten Monitoring

During the discussion, other members also highlighted the issue and urged the government to curb the practice, which they said places an unnecessary financial burden on parents and limits their freedom to choose where to purchase educational materials.