House panel for greater inclusivity, fee rationalisation and curriculum modernisation in Sainik Schools

A parliamentary standing committee on defence has called on the Ministry of Defence to address the issue of high annual fees in Sainik Schools on a priority basis.

The committee recommended creation of a dedicated fund to provide financial assistance or special concessions to students, particularly those from middle class and lower middle class or low income families. The aim is to ensure that deserving candidates, once selected, are not forced to give up their admission due to unaffordable fee structure, and can pursue their aspiration of studying in Sainik Schools without financial constraints.

It has also recommended certain reforms in Sainik Schools, calling for greater inclusivity, fee rationalisation and curriculum modernisation to ensure wider access and future-ready education for cadets.

While noting the existing reservation for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes, the committee emphasised the need to extend opportunities to students from economically weaker sections irrespective of their social background. It urged the Defence Ministry to review the Sainik Schools Society Rules & Regulations, 1997 to introduce provisions for fee exemption or subsidies, enabling deserving students to access quality education and serve the nation.

Heavy burden

The panel also flagged concerns over the high annual fee structure, which includes expenses for tuition, boarding, uniforms and other charges, along with a yearly 10% hike. It observed that this imposes a heavy burden on middle and lower income families and risks excluding meritorious candidates. The committee recommended creation of a dedicated fund to provide financial assistance or concessions to ensure that selected students are not forced to drop out due to affordability issues.

In addition, the House committee called for periodic updates to the curriculum to align with evolving defence and technology landscapes. It stressed the inclusion of subjects such as artificial intelligence, cyber and space warfare, drone systems, quantum technology and energy geopolitics to equip cadets with contemporary knowledge and skills.

The committee members have also been apprised that in view of the increase in the recruitment of girl cadets in Sainik Schools, proactive efforts are being made to provide favourable and hygienic residential facilities for girl cadets in each school. The panel has been briefed that approval for one of the all-girls’ school has been given at Mathura, which is yet to be started along with some private trusts like Rani Chennamma Sainik School in Kittur, where only the girl students are being trained.