Big News for Maharashtra Students: Free School Bags for Classes 1 to 8

Administrative approval granted for a proposal of Rs. 174.19 crore; students of local self-government schools to benefit

Mumbai: In a significant decision for school students across Maharashtra, the State Government has granted administrative approval for providing free school bags to students studying in Classes 1 to 8 in schools run by local self-government bodies. The decision is aimed at providing essential educational facilities to students and supporting families with school-related expenses.

Who Will Benefit?

The scheme will benefit students studying in Classes 1 to 8 in schools run by local self-government bodies across Maharashtra. The provision covers students from the primary and upper-primary levels. The initiative is part of the government’s efforts to ensure that students receive essential educational facilities and resources required for their schooling.

Rs. 174.19 Crore Proposal Approved

As per the proposal submitted by the Director of Education (Primary), Maharashtra State, Pune, the government has granted administrative approval for Rs. 174,19,35,424 (approximately Rs. 174.19 crore). The expenditure will be met from the provision made available for the financial year 2026-27. The approved cost includes various components related to the school bags, including design, supply, transportation and applicable GST.

School Bags to be Procured Through E-Tendering

The procurement of school bags will be carried out through the e-tendering process. The number of students will be taken into consideration while arranging the supply of school bags. Further action will be undertaken in accordance with the prescribed government rules, conditions and procurement procedures.

The decision is expected to provide an important educational facility to students studying in local self-government schools. It will also help reduce, to some extent, the financial burden on parents towards school-related requirements.

Read the Government Resolution (GR)

The complete Government Resolution (GR) related to this decision is available below. Readers can click on the link and read the GR to know the detailed provisions, eligibility, financial allocation, procurement procedure and other instructions issued by the Maharashtra Government.

Read the complete Government Resolution (GR) 19 August 2026.– Click Here