The Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee (FFRC) of Jammu and Kashmir has issued a major directive to all crèche-cum-schools operating across the Union Territory.
The committee has instructed these institutions to immediately obtain necessary permissions and submit their complete fee structures for regulatory scrutiny, marking a significant step toward transparency in early childhood education.
FFRC Flags Unregulated Crèches Turning Into Schools
According to the circular issued under the chairmanship of Justice Sunil Hali, many centres that were originally established as crèches—meant solely for child care—have gradually started imparting structured classroom teaching.
The FFRC noted that these institutions are now offering educational programs up to:
- Pre-Nursery
- Nursery
- Upper Kindergarten (UKG)
Once a crèche begins formal teaching, it legally qualifies as a “school” and must comply with all statutory norms under the J&K School Education Act, 2002, and the J&K School Education Rules, 2010.
15-Day Deadline for Compliance
The committee has set a strict 15-day timeline for all crèche-cum-schools to complete the following:
Mandatory Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Obtain Permissions | Schools must obtain all mandatory approvals to operate legally under the School Education Act. |
| Submit Fee Structure | Institutions must submit detailed fee proposals for regulation by FFRC. |
| Provide Infrastructure Details | Centres must share accurate information about their facilities, safety standards, and staff qualifications. |
Failure to meet these requirements will lead to legal action under the applicable education laws.
CEOs Asked to Prepare District-Wise Lists
The FFRC has also issued directions to all Chief Education Officers (CEOs) across Jammu and Kashmir. They have been asked to compile:
- A complete list of all crèche-cum-schools operating in their districts
- Proper classification of institutions offering educational instruction
- Verification of infrastructure and compliance status
The final list must be submitted to the FFRC within seven days through the official administrative channel.
Ensuring Transparency & Protecting Parents
Justice Sunil Hali emphasized that the move aims to regulate early childhood learning, safeguard parents from arbitrary fee practices, and ensure that young children are placed in safe, legally compliant institutions.
“Failure to comply will result in action being taken in accordance with the law,” the circular states, underscoring the seriousness of the enforcement.
Conclusion
The FFRC’s latest directive marks a strong push toward regulating early education centres across J&K, ensuring they operate within legal and safety frameworks. Parents are advised to stay updated and ensure that their child’s crèche or preschool follows the required norms within the stipulated 15-day window.
FAQs
1. What has FFRC directed crèche-cum-schools to do?
They must obtain mandatory permissions and submit their complete fee structures for regulation.
2. Why is the directive important?
Many crèches have begun offering formal education without required approvals, violating education laws.
3. What is the compliance deadline?
Institutions have 15 days to complete all requirements.
4. Which laws apply to these institutions?
The J&K School Education Act, 2002, and J&K School Education Rules, 2010.
5. What role do CEOs have?
District CEOs must prepare and submit a list of all crèche-cum-schools within seven days.
6. What happens if an institution doesn’t comply?
FFRC will take legal action as per the education laws.
7. Will fee structures be regulated?
Yes, once submitted, they will be reviewed and regulated by FFRC to prevent overcharging.