U'khand HC permits pvt CBSE-affiliated schools to prescribe non-NCERT books

The Uttarakhand High Court today permitted CBSE-affiliated schools in the state to prescribe non-NCERT books if they deem fit but asked them to ensure that they are reasonably priced.

In an interim order on a writ petition filed by private schools, publishers and others against the state government's decision making NCERT books mandatory in all CBSE schools, Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia said the schools may recommend and use books other than NCERT books if they deem fit.

However, setting a precondition, the court said the books of private publications prescribed by such schools should not be exorbitantly priced.

It also said the books must follow the CBSE syllabus. The court asked private CBSE schools to provide a list of non-NCERT books prescribed by them alongside their prices to the state government and the CBSE.

The court set May 3 as the date for final hearing in the case.

Though appreciating the state governments intention behind making NCERT books mandatory in all schools which was to make books available to all sections of students at affordable prices, the court said every good thing cannot be compulsory.