Bihar is set to implement a new coaching policy starting in April 2026, marking a significant shift in the regulation of the state’s rapidly growing coaching industry. The state’s Education Department is putting the final touches on a revised framework that aims to establish stricter guidelines for coaching centres, increase accountability, and improve transparency. The new policy is set to be officially approved by the state cabinet later this month and will take effect at the beginning of the 2026-27 academic year.
Major Revisions in Coaching Sector Regulations
The revised coaching policy, which was initially introduced before the assembly elections, had been returned with suggestions for amendments. The new draft is now almost finalized and will be resubmitted for approval by the state-level competent authority before being sent to the cabinet. The introduction of the policy, which was originally slated for the 2025-26 academic year, faced delays due to the election cycle.
The Bihar government’s new policy aims to address several long-standing concerns in the coaching sector. One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a ban on government teachers working in private coaching centres. The Education Department has emphasized that teachers found involved in coaching activities, based on verifiable evidence, will face disciplinary action. This rule is expected to have a major impact on the coaching industry, which has been a common side business for government school teachers in the state.
New Restrictions on Coaching Centres
In addition to barring government teachers from teaching at coaching institutes, the revised policy introduces other key changes. Government schools and educational institutions will no longer be allowed to host or operate coaching centres, a restriction that was not included in previous regulations. This move is aimed at preventing conflicts of interest and ensuring that the focus remains on primary education.
The new rules also stipulate that coaching centres will be prohibited from operating during regular school hours. This provision is designed to ensure that students’ time in schools is not compromised by after-school coaching commitments. It is believed that this change will help improve the overall quality of education within schools while keeping the coaching industry in check.
Strengthening Oversight and Registration Process
To enhance the regulation of coaching centres, the new policy proposes the creation of district-level committees, each headed by the District Magistrate. These committees will oversee the registration of coaching institutes across Bihar. Institutions seeking to operate as coaching centres will now be required to publicly declare their fee structures for all courses they offer. The fees must be displayed in a transparent manner, and any complaints about excessive charges will be thoroughly investigated. Institutes found violating the fee structure regulations will face appropriate penalties.
In cases where coaching centres operate without proper registration, they will be subject to legal penalties. If any centre fails to adhere to the commitments made at the time of registration, the authorities will have the option to recommend the cancellation of its registration. Additionally, the government will implement random inspections of coaching centres to ensure compliance with the new guidelines. These periodic checks are intended to create a more transparent and accountable system within the coaching industry.
Aims of the New Coaching Policy
The new coaching policy is being designed to bring greater transparency, accountability, and protection for students in Bihar’s education system. The coaching sector has been a crucial part of the state’s educational landscape, particularly in preparing students for competitive exams. However, the lack of regulation has also led to numerous complaints regarding excessive fees and unregulated teaching practices.
By introducing these new regulations, the Education Department hopes to curb exploitation in the sector and provide students with a fairer and more transparent educational environment. The goal is to create a system that not only meets the growing demand for coaching but also ensures that coaching centres operate with greater accountability. The new policy is expected to be a step towards transforming Bihar’s educational framework, balancing the needs of students and the growing coaching industry.
Impact on the Coaching Industry
The implementation of these new regulations will likely have a profound impact on the coaching industry in Bihar. With the introduction of the ban on government teachers working in coaching institutes, the sector may see a shift in how coaching centres operate. Many coaching centres have relied heavily on teachers from government schools, and this move is expected to disrupt that model.
Additionally, the requirement for coaching centres to publicly display their fee structures will bring greater transparency and help protect students from being charged exorbitant fees. The imposition of fines for unregistered centres and the possibility of registration cancellation for non-compliance will likely make coaching centres more cautious and responsible in their operations.
The mandatory inspections by authorities will further ensure that the quality of education and services offered by coaching institutes remains consistent with the standards set by the government. The move to prevent coaching during school hours is also expected to have a positive effect, as it will reduce the burden on students and ensure that they focus on their regular academic curriculum.
Bihar’s new coaching policy, set to be implemented in April 2026, represents a significant step toward regulating the state’s booming coaching industry. The revised framework seeks to increase transparency, reduce exploitation, and ensure that coaching centres operate in a more accountable and regulated manner. With the introduction of restrictions on government teachers working in coaching centres, as well as new rules on fee disclosure and monitoring, the state government aims to address long-standing concerns and improve the quality of education. As the policy moves closer to its implementation, it will be interesting to see how these changes reshape Bihar’s education landscape and the coaching sector in the years to come.
