Closure of Primary and Higher Secondary Schools in Assam

What was asked, and of whom?

The question asked by MP Md. Rakibul Hussain sought information on the closure or merger of schools in Assam, specifically requesting details on the number of schools closed, reasons, impact assessments, steps taken to address concerns, and plans for vacant school buildings. The Ministry of Education provided the official written answer.

Who asked / answered

Md. Rakibul Hussain (asked), Ministry of Education (answered)

What the government said

• No schools under State Government have been closed
• 3805 Ventures Schools provincialized in 2021
• 133 Primary Schools amalgamated with High/Higher Secondary Schools
• 418 Elementary Schools amalgamated/merged during 2024-25 to 2026-27
• Reasons for amalgamation: low enrolment, effective administration, optimum teacher utilization, mitigating teacher shortage, reducing dropout rates
• Samagra Shiksha funds released to Assam: 2021-22: Rs. 156156.4 lakh, 2022-23: Rs. 208086.22 lakh, 2023-24: Rs. 181046.93 lakh, 2024-25: Rs. 202677.34 lakh, 2025-26: Rs. 293009.36 lakh
• 218 Tea Garden Model Schools established
• Rs. 7-8 crores allocated for 368 schools, Rs. 3-4 crores for 144 schools for infrastructure development
• Guidelines for utilisation of vacant school properties via MoU with departments/NGOs

Points worth noting

• The government states no schools have been closed, only merged for administrative reasons
• The answer provides specific figures for school amalgamations and fund releases
• The government cites the Assam Education (Provincialization) Act, 2017, as a legal basis for amalgamations
• The answer includes detailed financial data for Samagra Shiksha funds over five years
• The government mentions specific initiatives like Tea Garden Model Schools and infrastructure allocations