MP to buy school uniforms from private firms, ousting SHGs

MP to buy school uniforms from private firms, ousting SHGs

The Madhya Pradesh government has announced a significant change to its school uniform procurement policy, deciding to source uniforms for government school students from private firms instead of women's Self-Help Groups (SHGs), which had been entrusted with the task for several years.

The decision has sparked political debate and concern among SHG members, with critics claiming it could deprive thousands of rural women of a crucial source of income.

What has changed?

Under the revised policy, the state government will procure school uniforms through private manufacturers selected via a competitive tendering process.

Previously, the responsibility for stitching and supplying uniforms rested largely with women's Self-Help Groups operating under various rural livelihood missions. The arrangement was intended to provide employment opportunities while supporting the state's school education programme.

Officials said the new system aims to streamline procurement, improve quality standards and ensure the timely delivery of uniforms to students across the state.

Government cites efficiency

According to state officials, shifting procurement to private firms is expected to enhance operational efficiency and address delays that have occasionally affected the distribution of uniforms.

The government maintained that a centralised tender process would help ensure consistent quality, better monitoring and adherence to delivery schedules before the start of the academic session.

Officials also said the procurement process would remain transparent and comply with existing financial and administrative norms.

Opposition, SHGs raise concerns

The policy shift has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and representatives of Self-Help Groups.

They argue that thousands of women who depended on uniform-stitching orders for seasonal income could be adversely affected by the decision.

SHG members have urged the government to reconsider the move, saying the programme not only generated employment but also strengthened women's financial independence in rural areas.

Opposition parties have accused the government of sidelining community-based enterprises in favour of private companies, demanding that the previous system be restored.

Impact on livelihoods

Women's Self-Help Groups have played a key role in implementing welfare schemes across Madhya Pradesh, participating in activities ranging from tailoring and food supply to community development projects.

For many members, school uniform contracts represented a dependable source of income that supported household finances and encouraged entrepreneurship at the grassroots level.

Experts say any transition away from SHG-led procurement may require alternative livelihood opportunities to minimise the economic impact on affected women.

What happens next?

The government is expected to initiate the tendering process soon to ensure uniforms are supplied before the next academic cycle.

Meanwhile, SHG federations and opposition leaders have indicated that they will continue pressing the government to review the decision and safeguard employment opportunities for women associated with the programme.

As the policy debate unfolds, the challenge for the state will be balancing efficiency in public procurement with the broader objective of promoting rural livelihoods and women's economic empowerment.