Synopsis
On March 4, Rajasthan Education Minister Madan Dilawar ordered an investigation into irregularities in the madrasa board and mid-day meal scheme from the prior government, highlighting significant discrepancies and corruption.Key Takeaways
- Investigation into madrasa board and mid-day meal scheme initiated.
- COVID-19 fund distribution issues raised.
- CAG report indicates a scam of Rs 1,705 crore.
- Commitment to quality education and moral values emphasized.
- Innovations in paper-checking system introduced.
Jaipur, March 4 (NationPress) Rajasthan Education Minister Madan Dilawar has initiated an investigation into the irregularities associated with the madrasa board and the mid-day meal scheme from the previous government’s term.
The Minister pointed out irregularities in the mid-day meal scheme that occurred during the previous administration:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, rather than depositing funds into parents’ accounts (as recommended by the Finance Department), the Education Department opted to distribute food items. Despite an official student enrollment of 59.81 lakh, it was reported that materials were distributed for 66.22 lakh students, raising significant concerns over discrepancies.
He stated, "A CAG report revealed a scam amounting to Rs 1,705 crore in material procurement tenders. The previous investigation will be annulled, and a new, unbiased inquiry will commence. Corruption relating to uniform distribution in the Madrasa Board will also be rigorously examined.
Dilawar reaffirmed the government's dedication to providing quality education for every child in Rajasthan, fostering both moral values and practical knowledge.
He emphasized that both family and educational institutions play a vital role in shaping students' character, and the state government is enhancing the education system accordingly.
In addition, he remarked: "The REET exam, conducted on February 27-28, 2025, was managed under strict oversight to maintain confidentiality. 13.77 lakh candidates participated, and there were no reports of unethical conduct. Similarly, the Pre D.El.Ed. exam (2024) was executed successfully."
While addressing the legislative assembly regarding the grant demands for the Primary (Demand No. 20) and Secondary Education (Demand No. 21) Departments, Dilawar announced that the assembly had approved grant requests amounting to Rs 218.82 billion for elementary education and Rs 288.30 billion for secondary education via voice vote.
He introduced innovations in the paper-checking process, stating: "In addition to re-totalling, a re-checking system is being launched through a pilot project. To prevent paper leaks and combat copy mafias, Secondary Education Board exam papers will be prepared section-wise by various experts."
He mentioned that under the National Education Policy, primary education will be provided in the local language or mother tongue.
“A dictionary has been created to facilitate this transition. Books are being developed in line with NEP guidelines, and all schools will be painted in a uniform color,” he concluded.
