UP govt plans to deposit Rs 1,100 into students’ account to prevent delay in distribution of school uniforms, school bags

MEERUT: With the process of distribution of uniforms, school bags and shoes getting delayed every year despite the funds being provided in time, the Uttar Pradesh government has now decided to transfer the money for the given items directly to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.
Against this backdrop, the government is planning to deposit Rs 1,100 into the account of each beneficiary.
“After a mutual agreement of the basic shiksha vibhag about depositing a certain amount into each beneficiary’s account for the procurement of uniforms, school bags and shoes, the proposal has been sent to the cabinet,” said additional principal secretary Renuka Kumar.
Kumar further said while Rs 600 would be given to each child for uniforms, Rs 500 would be provided for school bags, sweaters, socks and shoes.
The money will be transferred to the students’ accounts via the direct benefit transfer scheme.
Notably, 1.6 crore students are given these facilities every year for free in Uttar Pradesh. However, the procurement responsibility lies with the government and the private players whose tenders are accepted. Various complaints about the delay forced the authorities to take this step. The move to transfer the money to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries will not only prevent the delays but will also address the quality concern.