Karnataka preschool body seeks review of norms to prevent closures
The Karnataka Council of Preschools warned that current regulations could impact 25,000 centres and the livelihoods of 4.5 lakh women.
The Karnataka Council of Preschools (KCPS) on Wednesday appealed to the state government to revise regulations for standalone preschools. According to reports by Urban Acres and ThePrint, the council warned that existing rules could jeopardize the operation of over 25,000 centres across Karnataka.
The council stated that administrative directives issued in 2019 have created compliance hurdles for small, neighbourhood-based centres. Specific challenges include requirements for a 30-year registered lease for residential properties, classroom dimensions of 18 feet by 20 feet, a minimum area of 2,000 square feet, and land-use conversion for education.
KCPS alleged that these standards are designed for large K-12 institutions rather than small early childhood care and education centres. The body also claimed the preschool registration portal is not accessible to the general public and can only be reached through Block Education Officers.
The council warned that potential closures could impact the livelihoods of approximately 4.5 lakh women, including teachers and support staff. It also claimed that a lack of neighbourhood childcare could affect working mothers and that fees might increase up to five times due to reduced competition.
The KCPS has requested the Education minister to form a high-level committee to create a separate regulatory framework for standalone preschools. The council is also seeking an immediate stay on current building and lease requirements until a new framework is ready.