Fund Release by Union Government
Right to Education Funding in Tamil Nadu: The Union government has released ₹538.39 crore to Tamil Nadu under the Right to Education (RTE) entitlements through the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan. Out of this, ₹362 crore has been earmarked for the financial year 2024-25, and ₹175.59 crore forms the first instalment for 2025-26.
This fund aims to support schools in providing free and compulsory education to eligible children, as mandated by the Right to Education Act, 2009.
Static GK fact: The Right to Education Act came into force on 1 April 2010 and makes education a fundamental right under Article 21A of the Indian Constitution.
Seat Reservation for Marginalised Children
As per the provisions of the RTE Act, 25% of seats in entry-level classes in private schools must be reserved for children from economically weaker sections and disadvantaged groups. These children are entitled to free education, and the government reimburses private schools for their expenditure.
Tamil Nadu has consistently implemented this provision, ensuring greater access to education for children from low-income households.
Static GK fact: India is among the few countries where free and compulsory education is a constitutional guarantee for children between the ages of 6 and 14.
Legal Challenges in Fund Allocation
Earlier in 2024, the Madras High Court directed the Union government to consider delinking RTE reimbursements from the Samagra Shiksha scheme. This direction came after concerns that the linking created delays and inefficiencies in disbursing funds to states.
Following this, the Tamil Nadu government filed a Special Leave Petition (SLP) before the Supreme Court, seeking a binding direction for the Union government to release its share of funds on time.
Importance of Timely Fund Release
Delays in the release of RTE funds directly impact schools, particularly private institutions implementing the 25% reservation mandate. Without timely reimbursement, these schools face financial strain, which may affect the quality of education delivered to marginalised children.
The intervention of the judiciary highlights the tension between state and central responsibilities in education funding. Tamil Nadu’s proactive stance ensures that the rights of disadvantaged children remain protected.
Static GK Tip: Education in India is on the Concurrent List, meaning both the Union and state governments can legislate on the subject.
Way Forward
Ensuring predictable fund flow, better monitoring, and accountability in the reimbursement system is crucial. Tamil Nadu’s legal steps underline the importance of a robust funding mechanism for the success of the RTE Act. Strengthening state-level education frameworks with central cooperation remains vital for inclusive schooling.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Right to Education Funding in Tamil Nadu:
| Topic | Detail |
| Total RTE funds released | ₹538.39 crore |
| Allocation for 2024-25 | ₹362 crore |
| First instalment for 2025-26 | ₹175.59 crore |
| Seat reservation in private schools | 25% for marginalised children |
| RTE Act enactment year | 2009 |
| RTE implementation date | 1 April 2010 |
| Constitutional basis | Article 21A |
| Court involved in delinking direction | Madras High Court |
| Petition filed | Special Leave Petition (SLP) in Supreme Court |
| Education governance | Concurrent List subject |
