NEW DELHI: The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, on Friday approved a series of significant amendments and new rules aimed at enhancing parental participation in school management, easing overcrowding in prisons, and streamlining the functioning of key government departments.
Enhanced Parental Role in School Management Committees
In a major move to improve the quality of education in government schools, the Cabinet approved amendments to the Punjab Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Rules, 2011. The amendment seeks to increase parental and community involvement in School Management Committees (SMCs), raising the number of committee members from 12 to 16. Of these, 12 will be parents of students, while four members will be from allied fields such as education, sports, and extra-curricular activities. This decision aims to bring subject-specific expertise to the committees and foster a holistic approach to academics in government schools.
Amendment to Transfer of Prisoner Act, 1950
In another significant decision, the Cabinet approved amendments to the Transfer of Prisoner Act, 1950 to facilitate the transfer of under-trial prisoners between states. The transfer will require the consent of both the sending and receiving states, along with the approval of the trial court. This move is expected to ease the overcrowding in Punjabโs jails and improve prison management.
Creation of New Rules for Group A of Social Security, Women and Child Development Department
The Cabinet also approved the creation of new rules for Group A positions in the Social Security, Women, and Child Development Department. This decision is aimed at streamlining the departmentโs functioning, thereby ensuring better delivery of services to marginalized and underprivileged sections of society.
Approval of Terms and Conditions for Key Appointments
The Cabinet further gave its nod to the terms and conditions for the appointment of the Chairman and Members of the Punjab Tirath Yatra Samiti, as well as the Advisor to the Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board. These appointments are expected to strengthen the stateโs efforts in promoting heritage and religious tourism.
The decisions taken by the Cabinet reflect the Punjab governmentโs commitment to improving education, prison management, and social security while enhancing community participation in governance.
