UP Board to organize book fairs for affordable textbooks: focus on curbing overpricing

The Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad has announced plans to organise book fairs across districts to ensure the availability of authorised textbooks at reasonable prices. The initiative is aimed at addressing concerns raised by parents and students regarding the rising cost of school books for Classes 9 to 12.

Officials said the book fairs will be held at designated centres, where recognised publishers and vendors will offer textbooks approved by the board. The move is expected to provide students with easier access to required study material while reducing dependence on private sellers charging higher prices.

The decision comes amid complaints of unauthorised sale of books at inflated rates in several areas. Authorities have indicated that strict action will be taken against vendors found violating pricing norms or promoting unapproved material.

Authorities aim to ensure transparency and accessibility for students

The board has emphasised that the book fairs will help bring transparency into the textbook distribution system. By creating a centralised platform, students and parents will be able to purchase books directly without additional costs imposed by intermediaries.

Education officials noted that ensuring affordability of study material is essential for improving access to education, particularly for students from economically weaker backgrounds. The initiative is also expected to support uniformity in the use of prescribed textbooks across schools.

In addition to providing books at controlled prices, the fairs may also include guidance for students on selecting the correct editions and avoiding unnecessary purchases. Authorities have urged schools to inform students and parents about the schedule and locations of these fairs to ensure wider participation.

The move reflects ongoing efforts by the board to regulate educational resources and reduce financial burden on families. As preparations begin, further details regarding dates, venues and participating vendors are expected to be announced by district authorities.

With the new academic session underway, the success of the initiative will depend on effective implementation and monitoring at the local level, ensuring that students receive timely access to affordable and authentic textbooks.