KARNATAKA GOVT: RELAXES AGE CRITERIA FOR CLASS 1.ADMISSION.

**Karnataka Government Relaxes Age Criteria for Class 1 Admissions**

*Bengaluru, April 2025:* In a move aimed at addressing widespread concerns from parents, the Karnataka government has announced a one-time relaxation in the minimum age requirement for Class 1 admissions for the academic year 2025–26. This decision permits children who are 5.5 years old and have completed Upper Kindergarten (UKG) or its equivalent to enroll in Class 1, overriding the previous rule that required students to be 6 years old by June.

The education department stated that this adjustment is a response to numerous appeals from parents who were worried about the impact of the age limit on their children's educational continuity. This temporary measure, however, will not apply beyond this year. Starting with the 2026–27 academic session, the minimum age for Class 1 admissions will once again be set at 6 years.

The policy change has drawn mixed reactions. Many parents and private school associations have welcomed the move, applauding it as a flexible solution that considers the needs of younger learners. However, some educators and experts have raised concerns about the potential developmental and academic challenges for younger children entering formal schooling earlier than recommended.

While the government’s decision offers relief for parents this year, it has also reignited the broader debate on the ideal age for starting formal education. As schools prepare to adjust their admission processes, stakeholders continue to discuss the long-term implications of this policy shift.

*Reported by [Subash Dash,AIMA Media]*.
(*For educational or illustrative purposes*)