The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has announced a cap on private school fee increases at 5% for the academic year 2026-27. The decision, made on July 18, 2026, also mandates that schools refund any fees collected beyond this limit since April 2026.
Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains stated that the move aims to protect parents from arbitrary fee hikes. Schools must submit details of fees charged and refunds processed within 30 days, or face penalties under the Punjab School Education Act.
The government has set up a helpline (1800-180-1234) for parents to report violations. This follows complaints from parent-teacher associations about sudden increases of up to 20% in some schools.
