Demand for DBT Scheme for School Textbooks in Chandigarh on the Lines of Delhi
Delay in providing two Class 9 textbooks raises concerns; timely supply of books and uniforms sought
Chandigarh 25 October ( Ranjeet Singh Dhaliwal ) : The Chandigarh Administration has been urged to implement a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme on the lines of Delhi to ensure the timely availability of textbooks and other educational facilities for students studying in government schools. In this regard, the Vicky Midukhera Foundation has written to the District Education Officer, Chandigarh, requesting timely benefits for students towards textbooks, school uniforms and scholarships. The letter expresses concern over the non-availability of essential textbooks during the academic session. It states that two prescribed textbooks for Class 9 students have not yet been provided. The shortage of books affects students’ studies and causes inconvenience to parents. Citing Circular No. F.DE.23/DBT/PFMS/2026, issued by the Directorate of Education, Delhi, on October 8, 2026, the letter suggests adopting a similar mechanism in Chandigarh. Under the proposed arrangement, the prescribed cost of textbooks and school uniforms could be transferred directly to the bank accounts of eligible students or their parents.
The foundation has urged the authorities to provide the pending Class 9 textbooks immediately and ensure that all students receive their textbooks before the beginning of every academic session in the future. It has also suggested developing a digital tracking system and a grievance redressal mechanism to monitor textbook distribution and DBT payments. The letter further states that no student should be deprived of educational assistance due to incorrect bank account details or technical glitches in payment processing. It emphasises that ensuring the timely availability of educational materials should be a priority for Chandigarh, a city known for its educational institutions and facilities. The foundation has appealed to the administration to study Delhi’s model, take the necessary steps to introduce a similar scheme in Chandigarh and resolve the issue of pending textbooks without delay.

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