Date:22/04/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/04/22/stories/2005042214650400.htm

Tamil Nadu

Private schools demand recognition

Staff Reporter

CHENNAI: The State Government should provide permanent recognition to private schools, which has been delayed since the Kumbakonam tragedy, members of Tamil Nadu Nursery, Primary and Matriculation Schools Association said here on Thursday.

K.R. Nandakumar, the association's secretary, said about 10,000 private schools across the State had been affected due to the delay in renewal of recognition. Recognition to 2,000 new schools has also been held up although they adhered to the Government's norms for infrastructure and fire fighting equipment.

Claiming all matriculation schools had done away with thatched roofs, he said the Government must provide recognition to schools functioning for over a decade. Sanitation certificate, no objection certificate from the Fire and Rescue Services and building licences were not easy.He wanted the Government to treat private schools on par with Government schools and provide the same concessions in local taxes.

The members also wanted the tax on school vehicles, which had been increased to Rs. 36,000, to be reduced.