Punjab government announces mandatory recognition for private schools catering to children 0-6 years

The Punjab Government has made it mandatory for all private institutions offering early childhood care and education (ECCE) to get registered within six months. The policy, as announced by Dr. Baljit Kaur, Minister of Social Security and Women & Child Development, is to regulate private play schools and ensure a safe, nurturing, and standardized environment for children aged 0 to 6 years.

While launching the policy, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that this move is a landmark step to secure the interests of young learners along with quality early education. These guidelines are in accordance with the National Education Policy 2020 and present a child-centric, play-based curriculum based on the holistic development of children.

Curriculum The National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development prepared the curriculum of Aadharshila for children in the age group 3-6 years and Navchetna for children aged 0-3 years.

Mandatory Registration and Compliance

Private ECCE institutions are required to be registered with the Department of Social Security and Women & Child Development (DoSSWCD) through an online system that is designed to ensure transparency and minimize bureaucratic challenges. Applications will be submitted to the District Programme Officer (Women & Child Development) and verified through inspections conducted by the Child Development Project Officer (CDPO). Provisional certificates will be issued to schools that meet the prescribed norms.

Schools failing to register or comply with the guidelines will face penalties, including withdrawal of recognition. Regular inspections will be conducted to ensure adherence to safety, infrastructure, and educational standards.

Focus on Safety and Standards

The policy prioritizes health and safety, establishing quarterly health check-ups, maintenance of immunization records, and availability of first aid kits. Infrastructure requirements include child-friendly toilets, safe drinking water, adequate ventilation, and CCTV surveillance for safety. A teacher-child ratio of 1:20 is also mandated.

Parental Involvement and Transparency

The policy requires schools to establish Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) to oversee health, safety, and nutrition standards. Junk food bans, according to FSSAI guidelines, will also be enforced. In addition, an annual list of recognized and non-compliant schools will be published in the State Gazette and on the department’s website for public awareness.

Dr. Baljit Kaur said that this is part of the commitment of Punjab Government towards providing a safe, nurturing environment for young children. “This policy protects our children from all evils besides giving them proper care, education, and transparency by keeping a check on the ones involved,” she said.

The initiative is likely to change the face of early childhood education in the state that has about 40 lakh children from 0-6 years of age in Punjab.