2 days ago

Bengal Government to Verify Zero-Enrolment Schools, Assess Future Uses

West Bengal has found thousands of schools listed as having no students.

The government will send teams to visit 4,133 of these schools.

Officials want to check whether the records are correct.

Some private schools may have listed teachers but failed to update their student information.

Each district will form a committee led by its district magistrate.

The committees will inspect the buildings, land and basic facilities.

They will also suggest other public uses, such as training or health centres, where appropriate.

The government expects the inspection reports by December 2027.

Key facts

Schools under verification: 4,133 schools in West Bengal reported zero student enrolment.
India-wide figure: UDISE+ recorded 5,663 zero-enrolment schools across India for 2025-26.
Teachers listed: 19,502 teachers are recorded against the 4,133 West Bengal schools.
Possible data issue: Some private schools may have updated teacher details without correctly uploading student information.
Inspection leadership: Each district committee will be headed by the district magistrate.
Possible alternative uses: Suitable properties could become training centres, health centres or other community facilities.
Reporting deadline: District committees must submit findings by December 2027.
Single-teacher schools: 6,769 West Bengal schools have one teacher each for a combined 2,29,569 students.

telegraphindia.com · 2 days ago