The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, on Friday approved amendments to the Punjab Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Rules, 2011, aimed at increasing parental participation in the management of government schools to improve the quality of education.

According to an official spokesperson from the Chief Minister’s Office, the amendment seeks to enhance both parental and community involvement in School Management Committees (SMCs), facilitating the holistic development of academics in government schools.

Under the revised rules, the number of members in each SMC will be increased from 12 to 16. This includes 12 members from among the parents of students, while four members will be selected from allied fields such as education, sports, and extra-curricular activities. The inclusion of these members is intended to bring subject-specific expertise and strengthen parental and community engagement.

In another key decision, the Punjab Cabinet approved amendments to the Transfer of Prisoners Act, 1950, enabling the transfer of undertrial prisoners between states. Such transfers will be conducted with the consent of both states involved and will require approval from the trial court. The move is expected to ease overcrowding in Punjab’s jails.

Additionally, the Cabinet approved the creation of new rules governing Group A services in the Social Security, Women and Child Development Department. The decision aims to streamline the department’s functioning and benefit weaker and underprivileged sections of society.

The Cabinet also approved the terms and conditions for the appointment of the Chairman and members of the Punjab Tirath Yatra Samiti, as well as the advisor to the Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board.

— IANS