Delhi: DoE makes Aadhaar mandatory for EWS admission in private schools from next year

NEW DELHI: The Directorate of Education has decided to make Aadhaar mandatory for admissions to Delhi private schools under the economically weaker section (EWS), disadvantaged groups (DG) and children With special needs (CWSN) categories from the academic session 2023-24.

In a circular dated July 12, the Delhi government’s DoE said, “After due deliberations, it has been decided by the Competent Authority of GNCTD that the Aadhaar Card is must to achieve the legitimate goal i.e. to ensure the fair, transparent, uniform and hassle free admission process.”

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The DoE said, “In the past. The DoE has noticed that multiple applications are being filed by an applicant in order to increase the probabilities of their selection in the computerized draw of lots by manipulating with address/name/any other related personal details.”

Such applicants got admission in multiple schools because of altered information furnished during online application for admission. “This malpractice results into defeat of the beneficial scheme implemented for the admission of the bonafide EWS/DG and CWSN category students,” it added.

It further clarified that the information collected from Aadhar Card at the time of registration of the application form will be only minimal and limited to details contained therein i.e. personal details like Biometric etc. will be not stored, shared with any other agency.

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“The entire aim behind mandating the Aadhar card for admission process is in the interest of the deserving eligible applicants entitled to avail the benefits of Free and Compulsory Education under Section 12 (1) (c) of RTE Act, 2009,” it added.

Under the Right to Education Act, private schools are required to reserve 25% of seats in their entry-level classes for admission of students from EWS/DG and CWSN categories.