New Delhi: The Ministry of Education has clarified that the School Management Committee (SMC) Guidelines 2026 will not apply to differently managed schools that do not receive any financial aid or grants from the government or local authorities.
The clarification was issued following concerns and representations from various sections regarding the applicability of the new guidelines in the context of Section 21 of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009.
The Ministry had launched the School Management Committee (SMC) Guidelines 2026 on May 6 with the aim of strengthening community participation in school education and promoting decentralised and participatory school governance.
According to the Ministry, the guidelines are intended to improve the functioning of schools by creating a supportive, inclusive and effective learning environment while ensuring community ownership in school administration.
In a communication sent to all States and Union Territories on May 20, the Ministry clarified that schools covered under Section 2(n)(iv) of the RTE Act, 2009 will remain outside the scope of these guidelines if they do not receive any government aid or grants to meet their expenses.
However, the Ministry encouraged such schools to voluntarily constitute School Management Committees to enhance transparency, accountability and participatory governance in the education system.
The Ministry also stressed that education is a shared responsibility involving the government, schools, parents and the community, and stronger cooperation among all stakeholders is essential to improve school functioning and learning outcomes for children.
