The Ministry of Education has abolished the ‘no-detention policy’ for students in classes 5 and 8 of all government schools.

No-Detention Policy

• The Centre introduced the no-detention policy under the Right to Education (RTE) Act of 2009. 
  • This policy mandated that no student in classes 1–8 could fail or be expelled from school until they completed their elementary education.

• The goal of this policy was to reduce student dropouts, make learning more enjoyable, and eliminate the fear of failure.

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Concerns Over Learning Outcomes

• While the policy aimed to promote inclusivity, it soon became a contentious issue. Critics speculated that it contributed to declining learning outcomes.
• Both teachers and students have ceased putting in the necessary effort, transforming schools into hubs for mid-day meals rather than centers of learning.
• Already 16 states have done away with the no-detention policy.

Amendments to the RTE Act

• 2019 Amendment: The Right to Education Act was amended in 2019.
• Regular Exams for Class 5 and 8: The amendment included provisions for regular exams in class 5 and class 8 at the end of each academic year. 
• Exams Within Two Months: If a student failed the exam, they would be given additional instruction and a chance for re-examination within two months of the result declaration.
• Students Can be Held Back: If the student failed again after the re-examination, the appropriate government could allow schools to hold the student back in class 5 or class 8.
• Students Cannot Be Expelled: The government reiterated that no child could be expelled from school until the completion of elementary education. This remains a crucial part of the policy.

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Conclusion

The shift in the no-detention policy reflects a change in India’s approach to student progression, focusing on improving learning outcomes and retention. The new rules for classes 5 and 8 emphasize the importance of these key transition years in a student’s education.