Government Ends 'No-Detention Policy' for Classes 5 and 8

Government Ends 'No-Detention Policy' for Classes 5 and 8

The Union government has scrapped the "no-detention policy" for Class 5 and Class 8 students in central schools, marking a significant shift in education policy. Students in these grades who fail their annual exams will now be held back, with an opportunity to retake the exam within two months.

Second Chance for Students
Under the revised policy, students who fail the year-end examinations in Classes 5 and 8 will be given a re-examination opportunity within two months. If they fail again, they will have to repeat the grade. The move applies to over 3,000 central government-run schools, including Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and Sainik Schools.

Announcing the change, Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education & Literacy, said, "The Union Education Ministry has taken a big decision to abolish the 'No Detention Policy.' This step aims to improve learning outcomes among children. Students who fail their exams will now have the chance to improve, but repeated failures will result in retention."

Support for Struggling Students
The government emphasized that teachers will provide additional support to students who are held back. Specialized inputs will be offered to address learning gaps, ensuring that struggling students receive guidance and support.

"During the holding back of the child, the class teacher shall guide the child as well as the parents, if necessary, and provide targeted assistance to overcome learning challenges," the notification read.

Background of the Policy Change
The no-detention policy was introduced under the Right to Education (RTE) Act in 2009 to ensure that children progress through elementary education without fear of failure. However, critics argued that it led to declining academic standards, as students advanced without mastering the curriculum.

In 2019, the Rajya Sabha approved an amendment to the RTE Act, allowing states to decide whether to retain or abolish the policy for Classes 5 and 8. Since then, 16 states and two union territories have already opted out of the policy. The central government's recent decision extends this change to central schools, leaving individual states free to choose their approach.

State-Level Autonomy
Education being a state subject, state governments retain discretion in implementing the policy. While states like Delhi have already abolished the no-detention policy, others like Haryana and Puducherry are yet to decide.

No Expulsions Before Class 8
The government clarified that no child will be expelled from school before completing elementary education, even if they are held back. This ensures continued access to education while prioritizing learning outcomes.

The policy change is expected to have widespread implications, with experts and stakeholders divided over its potential impact. While proponents believe it will improve academic standards, critics caution against the risk of demotivating struggling students.

As the education landscape evolves, the government’s focus remains on striking a balance between academic rigor and inclusive support for learners.

Back to Blog

Leave A Comment

NEET 2025 Syllabus & Preparation Tips – A Complete Guide for Students

NEET 2025 Syllabus & Preparation Tips – A Complete Guide for Students

Chate Coaching Classes

Preparing for the NEET 2025 exam can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach and mindset, you can crack it with confidence! This guide will walk you through the NEET...

NEET 2025 Syllabus & Preparation Tips – A Complete Guide for Students

Preparing for the NEET 2025 exam can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach and mindset, you can crack it with confidence! This guide will walk you through the NEET...

By Chate Coaching Classes
Can I Give MHT-CET Without Biology?

Can I Give MHT-CET Without Biology?

Chate Coaching Classes

MHT-CET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test) is an important exam for students who want to pursue higher education in engineering, pharmacy, and agriculture in Maharashtra. Many students ask whether they can...

Can I Give MHT-CET Without Biology?

MHT-CET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test) is an important exam for students who want to pursue higher education in engineering, pharmacy, and agriculture in Maharashtra. Many students ask whether they can...

By Chate Coaching Classes
Can I Give MHT-CET Without Maths?

Can I Give MHT-CET Without Maths?

Chate Coaching Classes

MHT-CET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test) is an important exam for students who want to pursue engineering, pharmacy, and other professional courses in Maharashtra. Many students wonder if they can appear...

Can I Give MHT-CET Without Maths?

MHT-CET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test) is an important exam for students who want to pursue engineering, pharmacy, and other professional courses in Maharashtra. Many students wonder if they can appear...

By Chate Coaching Classes
MHT-CET, NEET, and JEE – Which Exam is for You?

MHT-CET, NEET, and JEE – Which Exam is for You?

Chate Coaching Classes

Choosing the right exam after 12th can be confusing. With so many entrance tests, students often wonder which one is for them. In this blog, let’s simplify the difference between...

MHT-CET, NEET, and JEE – Which Exam is for You?

Choosing the right exam after 12th can be confusing. With so many entrance tests, students often wonder which one is for them. In this blog, let’s simplify the difference between...

By Chate Coaching Classes
The Role of Parents in Reducing Exam Stress for Children

The Role of Parents in Reducing Exam Stress for Children

Chate Coaching Classes

Exams can be stressful for kids, but parents can make this time easier and more positive. With the right support, children can feel more confident and perform better. Here’s how...

The Role of Parents in Reducing Exam Stress for Children

Exams can be stressful for kids, but parents can make this time easier and more positive. With the right support, children can feel more confident and perform better. Here’s how...

By Chate Coaching Classes
How to Help Your Child Choose the Right Path

How to Help Your Child Choose the Right Path

Chate Coaching Classes

Every child is special and has different dreams about what they want to do in life. Today's students do more than just study - they try many different activities. Besides...

How to Help Your Child Choose the Right Path

Every child is special and has different dreams about what they want to do in life. Today's students do more than just study - they try many different activities. Besides...

By Chate Coaching Classes
Understanding the JOSAA Admission Process: A Simple Guide for Engineering Aspirants

Understanding the JOSAA Admission Process: A Simple Guide for Engineering Asp...

Chate Coaching Classes

The JOSAA (Joint Seat Allocation Authority) admission process is crucial for anyone aiming to secure a seat in one of the top engineering colleges in India, such as the IITs...

Understanding the JOSAA Admission Process: A Simple Guide for Engineering Asp...

The JOSAA (Joint Seat Allocation Authority) admission process is crucial for anyone aiming to secure a seat in one of the top engineering colleges in India, such as the IITs...

By Chate Coaching Classes
Guide to Engineering Admission Process and Documents to Prepare

Guide to Engineering Admission Process and Documents to Prepare

Chate Coaching Classes

The engineering admission process can often be lengthy and confusing, especially when you have to wait for rounds 1, 2, and 3 to be completed. To avoid unnecessary delays, some...

1 Comment

Guide to Engineering Admission Process and Documents to Prepare

The engineering admission process can often be lengthy and confusing, especially when you have to wait for rounds 1, 2, and 3 to be completed. To avoid unnecessary delays, some...

By Chate Coaching Classes