Schools affiliated with various boards have been asked to reduce their annual fees by 15 per cent. The Maharashtra Cabinet took a decision to this effect on Wednesday in view of the growing demand from parents who are financially stressed because of the pandemic.

School Education Minister Varsha Gaikwad said a notification would be issued soon to bring clarity in implementation, especially for those who have already paid the fees. She said the decision was based on a verdict of the Rajasthan High Court. When asked what would the state do if the schools raised the fees by 15 per cent while giving a recommended discount, the minister said the schools had assured the government that they would not increase fees this year. She also insisted that the decision/order would apply notwithstanding affiliation with various national and international boards.