Dr Sudha Acharya on Delhi’s Fee Regulation Ordinance
Dr Sudha Acharya, Principal of ITL Public School, Delhi, and Former Chairperson of the National Progressive Schools’ Conference (NPSC), shares her thoughts on the Delhi government’s draft ordinance to regulate private school fees. In this exclusive interview with Brainfeed Magazine, she discusses the implications of the ordinance, challenges faced by schools, and the need for a balanced and transparent regulatory approach that safeguards both quality education and school autonomy.
The Delhi government is introducing an ordinance regarding fee regulation in private schools. Your comments?
We find the proposed formation of three committees and the inclusive nature of the Parents Teachers Association (PTA) body—such as including members from SC/ST communities and two female representatives—very thoughtful and progressive. My own PTA body was dissolved in March and has been reconstituted as per the Delhi government’s directives.
There shouldn’t be a blanket rule that schools cannot increase fees. If the committee permits a modest 5–6% annual increase, that would help cover teachers’ increments, biannual DA revisions, infrastructure upgrades, and integration of new technologies. Schools that wish to increase fees by 20–30% should be asked to justify their reasons. While culprits must be identified, we must not generalise—most private schools are responsible, and the quality education they offer comes at a cost.
What challenges do private schools face when such regulations are introduced?
This issue dates back to 2015–16 when the AAP government came to power. Before that, we generally increased fees within 8–10%, which was sufficient. But now, if there’s no scope for increase year after year, it becomes unsustainable. The biggest repercussion is on teachers. Schools are forced to place them on contractual roles instead of regular appointments. This affects gratuity, increments, and overall career progression.
How do we attract talented young educators if we can’t offer stability and growth? If schools cannot offer competitive compensation aligned with the 7th Pay Commission and DA adjustments, we will lose out on good teachers.
Moreover, government and private schools should not be seen in opposition. They complement each other in the larger vision of quality education. Parents prefer private schools because they expect a certain standard, and quality comes with a price. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, the focus should be on identifying and penalising erring institutions.
Do private schools already follow any internal processes to decide fee structures?
Yes, every school has a School Managing Committee (SMC). In my case, we run a centrally air-conditioned school with AC buses, yet our fees remain quite reasonable, never increasing beyond 10%. The SMC and PTA jointly deliberate and decide. If a school wants to propose a 19–20% hike, they should justify the need.
How impactful is the Parents Teachers Association (PTA) on school operations?
The PTA has always been part of the structure. The only change now is the composition—two female members and one from the SC/ST community, which I welcome. In our PTA, we have doctors, professors, and corporate professionals. As long as there is clarity and a roadmap, we have no issue complying. I am not criticising the bill; it’s too early. Let it be passed and implemented. Only then can we evaluate its real impact.
What impact might fee regulation have on infrastructure development in schools?
Modern education is increasingly tech-driven. From AR/VR and machine learning to ATL labs and digital libraries, everything demands investment. We are already live-streaming classes and maintaining YouTube channels. If a teacher is absent, their lecture can be streamed to other sections. These initiatives require constant technological upgrades, which come at a cost.
What role should the government play in balancing affordability and sustainability?
Of course, the government must have checks and balances. But extreme restrictions can hinder operations. The draft bill seems reasonable. Let it be enacted, and let us see how the three committees function. If executed properly, it could be beneficial. We are not against the government—we are ready to work collaboratively.
Will a fixed cap on annual fee hikes help?
A fixed annual cap—say 6%—would work as a basic threshold. If a school needs more, they should be allowed to justify it with valid documentation. But a minimum 5–7% annual increase should be allowed to cover rising expenses.
What support or clarity do private schools expect from the government?
Private schools always aim to coordinate with the government. If they bring in a new ordinance, we are ready to implement it and set up the required committees. From my experience, our PTA has always been cooperative. We haven’t faced any resistance so far.
In your view, how can transparency be ensured without compromising school autonomy?
Schools are already under regular inspection and provide all necessary data. If a school applies for a fee hike and the authorities find the reasons justified, it should be approved. Transparency doesn’t mean overregulation. Collaboration and mutual trust are key.
