Pre-schools in Bengaluru face notices for non-compliance with new regulations

Several pre-schools in Bengaluru have received notices from the Department of School Education for not complying with recent registration requirements. The issue stems from a directive issued in May 2025, mandating that all new pre-schools must register with the department through the Student Achievement Tracking System portal.

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The new regulations require pre-primary schools to meet specific criteria, including a minimum building area of 2,000 square feet, additional space for each child, a 30-year lease on the property, and the conversion of the site for educational purposes. However, many pre-schools, often run by homemakers turned entrepreneurs, are struggling to meet these conditions.

Karnataka Council for Pre-schools (KCPS) concerns

The Karnataka Council for Pre-schools (KCPS) has raised concerns, stating that these requirements are more suited to primary schools rather than smaller, independently operated pre-schools. Pruthvi Banwasi, secretary of the KCPS, reportedly emphasized that both new and existing pre-schools are unable to comply with the new norms. Notices have been issued by Block Education Officers (BEOs), warning of strict action unless the schools meet the new standards.

In response, the KCPS has appealed to the education department for a revision of the norms. The association has proposed adopting guidelines from other states as a potential model. A senior official from the department reportedly acknowledged the difficulties faced by pre-schools and indicated that discussions are underway to address the concerns.