Bihar’s government has launched a scheme to provide free school uniforms to underprivileged students across the state, effective from the 2025-26 academic session. Targeting economically disadvantaged families, the initiative aims to boost school attendance and reduce dropout rates. Over 50 lakh students are expected to benefit, with the state allocating ₹500 crore for the program, ensuring quality education access.
Bihar’s Bold Step: Free Uniforms for Underprivileged Students
In a significant move to promote education equity, the Bihar government has rolled out a transformative scheme to provide free school uniforms to underprivileged students starting from the 2025-26 academic session. Announced on June 12, 2025, the initiative targets students from economically weaker sections, aiming to alleviate financial burdens on families and encourage consistent school attendance. The program, backed by a ₹500 crore budget allocation, is set to benefit over 50 lakh students across government schools in the state.
The scheme focuses on students enrolled in Classes 1 to 12 in government-run and government-aided schools. Eligible students will receive two sets of uniforms annually, tailored to their school’s specifications, along with accessories like socks and belts. The Education Department has emphasized that the uniforms will be of high quality, ensuring durability and comfort. This initiative comes as part of the state’s broader push to address high dropout rates, particularly in rural areas, where financial constraints often force children out of school.
According to official data, Bihar has a primary school dropout rate of 8.9% and a secondary school dropout rate of 25.63%, among the highest in the country. The provision of free uniforms is expected to reduce these figures by easing the economic strain on families, for whom even basic school supplies can be a significant expense. “This is a game-changer for families struggling to afford education. Uniforms are not just clothing; they give children dignity and confidence to attend school,” said an Education Department official.
The program will be implemented through a decentralized system, with district education officers overseeing distribution. Schools have been directed to submit student data by July 15, 2025, to ensure timely delivery before the new academic session. The government has also partnered with local textile units to produce the uniforms, boosting regional economies while ensuring quality control. To prevent misuse, a digital tracking system will monitor distribution, with QR codes embedded in uniforms to verify authenticity.
The initiative has drawn praise from educators and social activists. “This step addresses a critical barrier to education. Many children skip school because they feel embarrassed without proper uniforms,” said Renu Kumari, a school principal in Patna. However, some challenges remain, including ensuring timely distribution in remote areas and addressing potential supply chain bottlenecks. The government has assured that contingency plans are in place to tackle these issues.
The scheme aligns with Bihar’s ongoing efforts to revamp its education system, which has faced criticism for inefficiencies and corruption. Recent reports highlight a ₹60,954 crore education budget for 2025-26, though concerns about fund utilization persist. By directly addressing students’ needs, the free uniform program signals a commitment to tangible outcomes. As the state gears up for the 2025 Assembly elections, this initiative is also seen as a strategic move to bolster public support.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from government announcements, educational reports, and local news sources as of June 12, 2025. Data and figures are subject to change based on official updates.