Chandigarh, April 23
The Punjab government has introduced a new system to directly provide textbooks to students in private schools affiliated with the Punjab School Education Board, starting from the 2026–27 academic year. The reform, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, seeks to end the long-standing role of middlemen such as authorised agencies and bookshops in textbook distribution.
Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said the move is designed to make the system more transparent, ensure the timely delivery of books, and reduce costs for families. Schools, he said, will only act as facilitators and will not be allowed to charge anything beyond the discounted printed price. The government estimates the policy will benefit more than one million students enrolled in private schools across the state.
Under the new system, a 15% discount—previously offered to booksellers—will now be passed directly to students. Officials say this could significantly ease the financial burden on families while improving accountability. To support the rollout, the board has developed a digital platform where schools can upload book requirements and students or parents can place orders. Individual login credentials will be issued, allowing families to manage purchases directly if needed.
PSEB chairman Amarpal Singh said the platform includes a secure online payment system aimed at ensuring smooth and transparent transactions, while preventing overcharging.
Once orders are placed, regional offices will prepare and distribute textbook bundles for collection. Schools will also need to formally commit to not charging any extra fees, reinforcing compliance with the new policy.
The initiative is part of broader efforts by the Punjab government to make education more accessible and affordable, while tightening oversight in the system.
