Pune: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has sanctioned the purchase of educational supplies worth ₹6 crore for students from pre-primary to Class 8, but the timing of this decision has sparked criticism. The approval, granted by the Municipal Commissioner, comes just as the academic year is drawing to a close, raising concerns about its immediate usefulness to students.
Every year, students face delays in receiving essential educational materials that could have benefited them throughout the school term. This year, the state government directed PMC to procure supplies from pre-approved vendors, with the purchasing process finalized through tenders. However, with schools already wrapping up their sessions, these materials will likely only be useful in the upcoming academic year.
Breakdown of the Educational Supplies Purchase:
Writing Skill Kits for Pre-Primary Students – ₹2.03 crore
(Includes art and craft books, writing materials, slates, and chalk)
Activity and Art Books for Class 1 to 8 – ₹3.52 crore
“Jadui Pitara” Learning Kits for Pre-Primary Students – ₹60 lakh
While the purchase aims to enhance learning resources, the delay in distribution has raised questions about the efficiency and timing of the procurement process. Parents and education stakeholders continue to urge authorities to ensure timely distribution so that students can benefit from these materials throughout the academic year rather than at its conclusion.
