Thousands of families across Karnataka are grappling with uncertainty as the new academic year approaches. More than 2.3 lakh children who have completed Upper Kindergarten (UKG) may not be allowed to enter Class 1 because they fall short of the state’s age eligibility requirement by just a few days or weeks.

What Is the Rule?

According to current regulations, a child must turn six years old on or before June 1 to qualify for admission into Class 1. Students born shortly after this deadline are considered ineligible, even if they have successfully completed UKG and met academic expectations.

Pandemic-Era Children Most Affected

Many of the impacted students were born during the COVID-19 pandemic. Parents say these children have progressed normally in school, adapted socially, and are prepared for primary education. Despite this, the strict enforcement of the age cut-off may require them to repeat a year.

Debate Over Proposed Relaxation

The controversy has intensified because a State Education Policy (SEP) report had recommended allowing up to a 90-day relaxation in age eligibility. Families claim that although such flexibility was discussed and a one-time concession was granted last year, the recommendation has not been implemented for the current batch of students.

Emotional and Academic Concerns

Parents argue that forcing children to repeat a year despite meeting learning benchmarks could affect confidence, motivation, and peer relationships. Many students have already prepared to move forward with their classmates, making the prospect of being held back particularly distressing.

Call for Immediate Clarity

Families across the state are urging authorities to introduce the proposed 90-day relaxation without delay. They believe a timely decision would prevent academic disruption and ease emotional strain for thousands of young learners.