Patna: The Government of Bihar is preparing a major policy shift that could bring sweeping changes to private coaching institutes across Bihar. As coaching centres continue to expand rapidly in cities and towns, the state has drafted a new law to regulate their functioning and make them more accountable. Officials say the move is meant to protect students and parents from arbitrary fees, false promises and a lack of proper facilities.
The proposed rules will apply to all coaching centres with more than 25 students. Once implemented, every such institute will need compulsory registration before operating. Running a coaching centre without approval could lead to a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh. Other violations, such as breaking operational rules or ignoring student welfare guidelines, may attract penalties ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 2 lakhs. Authorities may also cancel the registration of institutes found repeatedly violating the law.
Under the draft, each coaching centre must pay Rs 15,000 to register, and every branch of a coaching chain will need separate approval. Registration will be valid for three years. Before permission is granted, a district-level inspection committee will inspect the institute and submit its report. The government believes this process will help ensure that centres meet basic standards before they begin enrolling students.
The new law also focuses strongly on student welfare. Each student must be given at least two square feet of space, and teachers must hold at least a graduate degree. Coaching centres will have to declare how many students each batch can hold, and that number cannot be increased after classes begin. This rule is aimed at stopping overcrowding and ensuring students get proper attention in classrooms.
In a significant step, the state wants every coaching institute to appoint trained counsellors to support students’ mental health. Officials say the intense pressure of competitive exams often affects students emotionally, and many need professional guidance. The rules also state that coaching centres cannot charge extra money for notes or study materials. If a student leaves a course midway, the remaining fee must be returned, making the system more transparent and student-friendly.
Another major change is the ban on publicising results. Coaching institutes will not be allowed to display toppers’ photos or use students’ marks in advertisements. The government says this practice creates unnecessary pressure on other students and promotes unhealthy competition. Officials believe removing this will reduce stress and create a more balanced academic environment.
To monitor the new system, committees will be set up at both district and state levels. These bodies will be headed by senior education officials and will include representatives from the police, health, social welfare and skill development departments. Parents, students and coaching operators will also have representation. The draft has been released for public suggestions, and once approved, it could become one of the strongest education regulations introduced by Education Department, Bihar in recent years.
