Shimla: Government schools across Himachal Pradesh are facing heat from the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBOSE) for allegedly forcing students to purchase costly private books instead of using board-prescribed textbooks. This widespread violation has sparked public outrage and demands for accountability.

The board has confirmed receiving multiple complaints, particularly from parents of Class XI and XII students in science, commerce, and arts streams, regarding the imposition of private publishers' books — some costing up to Rs 3,000 per subject.

Breach of HPBOSE textbook guidelines

HPBOSE mandates the use of specific textbooks aligned with the state curriculum. However, field reports suggest many schools are bypassing this requirement, citing “easier explanations” or “better content” in private publications.

HPBOSE Secretary Dr Vishal Sharma issued a clear warning: “No school has the right to replace board books. We will take strict disciplinary action against any institution flouting guidelines.”

He added that teachers and school managements pushing unauthorised books could face suspension or demotion.

Students and parents bear the financial brunt

Parents across Himachal have complained that the cost of these private books ranges from Rs 500 to Rs 3,000 per subject, far exceeding the Rs 150–Rs 200 cost of HPBOSE books. For rural and low-income families, this trend has created an unaffordable burden.

A comparative analysis shows:

  • Physics (Class XI Science): HPBOSE – Rs 180 vs Private – Rs 950
  • Accountancy (Commerce): HPBOSE – Rs 200 vs Private – Rs 800
  • Political Science (Arts): HPBOSE – Rs 170 vs Private – Rs 700
  • English (All streams): HPBOSE – Rs 150 vs Private – Rs 600

The disparity is alarming, especially since many private books may not align with the state syllabus, potentially harming academic performance in board exams.

Corruption concerns and vested interests

There is growing suspicion that some teachers and school administrators may have commercial ties with publishers, prompting accusations of corruption and collusion. Critics warn that education is being commodified, with students caught in the crossfire.

HPBOSE’s action plan

In response, HPBOSE is preparing to:

  • Issue fresh circulars reinforcing the mandate to use board books only
  • Conduct surprise school inspections
  • Launch audits targeting curriculum adherence
  • Penalise violators with disciplinary actions

The board reiterated that education must remain equitable and transparent, warning schools not to exploit their authority at the expense of students’ financial and academic well-being.

The issue has sparked wider debate on ethics in school administration and commercial infiltration in public education, prompting demands for stricter regulation and parent oversight.