Parents decry age cut-off norms under RTE for admission to Odisha schools

Several parents in Odisha voiced their concerns on Friday regarding the age requirements for admission into Class 1 through Right to Education (RTE)-Paradarshi portal, as the existing regulation allows for registration of children only if they are at least six years old by September 1.

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This policy particularly affects children who turn six between the dates of March 31 and September 1, leading to confusion and dissatisfaction among the parents.

Rajya Abibhabaka Mahasangha (a parents' outfit in Odisha) expressed strong opposition to the age criteria, highlighting inconsistencies between State and Central government rules. While central schools, such as Kendriya Vidyalayas, permit admissions for children aged between six to eight years, the State's cut-off date of September 1 leaves many children unable to enroll their names.

Parents have found themselves disillusioned when trying to register their children online, as those who turn six by March 31, 2025 should typically qualify for admission, but the State's revised deadline negatively impacts these children.

Despite raising grievances, the School and Mass Education (S&ME) department is yet to respond to the parents.

The parents’ association argues that this policy inadvertently supports private educational institutions by creating unnecessary barriers. Out of approximately 7,000 private schools, only 2,889 schools have so far registered on the RTE-Paradarshi portal, further questioning the system’s implementation and transparency.

Although the State government plans to introduce ambitious changes to education with the implementation of the New Education Policy (NEP) starting the 2025-26 academic year, the ongoing debate over age eligibility has left many parents anxious about future enrolments, putting the government's commitment under doubt.

Accusations made by the parents' outfit

“If the age cut-off date across the country is March 31, how the eligibility date in Odisha is September 1. It is a well-planned conspiracy. After the last date of admission will pass, the private schools will sell the 25 percent reserve seats,” the parents’ outfit acting president, Prasanna Bisoyi said to OTV.

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No comments from the S&ME department officials could be obtained over the matter.