Karnataka Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa has announced a 60-day relaxation in the minimum age requirement for admission to Class 1 for the 2026–27 academic year. This decision comes in response to concerns raised by parents across the state. The Minister stated that the exemption is provided under the Karnataka Education Act, 1993, Chapter 3, Section 20.
He emphasized that the relaxation will be applicable for admissions in the 2026–27 academic year. Technical corrections will be made in the relevant documents to implement this change. Additionally, the Minister addressed issues related to admissions in Lower Kindergarten (LKG) and Upper Kindergarten (UKG), highlighting the lack of clear regulations for these classes.
Bangarappa urged parents not to panic and assured that the 60-day relaxation would apply to LKG, UKG, and Class 1 admissions. He also mentioned plans to introduce new legislation to regulate LKG and UKG admissions, aiming to bring clarity to the process. The move was welcomed by Deputy Leader of the Opposition Arvind Bellad, who suggested amending the circular to ensure the relaxation remains in effect until a formal policy is established.
Responding to the suggestion, Bangarappa agreed and emphasized the need for clear directives to address inconsistencies in early childhood education admissions. He assured parents that the government would soon introduce the legislation to cover LKG and UKG admissions. This announcement is expected to offer immediate relief to parents as the government works on a comprehensive policy framework for early education admissions in Karnataka.
