Centre Ends No-Detention Policy for Classes 5 and 8

In December, 2024, the Centre decided to end the 'no-detention policy' for Classes 5 and 8 in central government schools, following the Right to Education ( (Amendment) Act, 2019.

Key Points

State Implementation: 18 states and UTs, including Assam, Tamil Nadu, and Delhi, have already scrapped the policy.
Re-Examination Opportunity: Students failing year-end exams will get two months of additional instruction and a re-examination chance before being held back.
Focus on Learning Gaps: Teachers will identify struggling areas, provide specialised inputs, and guide both students and parents during the hold-back period.
Retention Criteria: Retained students cannot be expelled before completing elementary education, ensuring assessments focus on overall development rather than rote learning.
Impact Scope: The policy affects over 3,000 central government schools like Kendriya Vidyalayas and Sainik Schools, with states deciding its application in their schools.