The Government of Maharashtra has decided to closely scrutinise school names that use terms such as “international”, “global”, and “CBSE” without having the required official affiliation. The move comes after repeated complaints that parents are being misled by school branding that suggests foreign links or national board recognition where none exists. Education officials have said the exercise will involve checking approvals, board affiliations, and compliance with naming rules already in force.
I am writing about this issue because school names play a big role in how parents choose where to admit their children. In many cases, the words used in a school’s name create an impression of higher standards or special recognition. When these claims are not backed by proper approvals, it leads to confusion and unfair practices. This decision matters to parents, students, and school managements alike, as it directly affects transparency in the education system.
Why the Maharashtra Government Is Taking This Step
The state education department has observed that several schools are using attractive terms like “international” or “CBSE” purely for marketing purposes. These words often suggest global curricula or affiliation with the Central Board of Secondary Education, even when the school is not officially recognised by the board.
The government believes this misleads parents and creates an uneven playing field for schools that follow the rules.
What the Scrutiny Process Will Involve
Education officials are expected to:
- Verify board affiliations and recognition certificates
- Check whether schools are authorised to use specific terms in their names
- Ask non-compliant schools to rename themselves
- Take action against repeated or deliberate violations
Schools that fail to comply may face penalties or further administrative action.
What This Means for Schools
Schools using restricted terms without approval may be directed to drop them from their names. This could involve changes to signage, official records, and promotional material. While this may be inconvenient for some institutions, officials say it is necessary to protect parents from misleading information.
Schools with valid approvals will not be affected by the move.
Impact on Parents and Students
For parents, this step brings more clarity while choosing schools. A regulated naming system ensures that what a school claims through its name matches its actual status. Students also benefit indirectly, as transparency helps maintain trust in the education system.
Clear rules reduce confusion and false expectations.
Long-Standing Rules, Stronger Enforcement
Officials have pointed out that rules on school naming already exist, but enforcement has been weak. This renewed scrutiny signals that the state is serious about implementation rather than just guidelines on paper.
It also sends a message that branding cannot replace proper recognition and quality standards.
