Pune: School Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar has clarified that there is no issue with the transfer of Mount Carmel Convent Higher Secondary School in Chandrapur to the Adani Foundation under the group’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
The minister addressed concerns surrounding the decision, stating that such transfers are part of a regular administrative process aimed at improving the quality of education.
Kesarkar said: "The transfer of a school’s management to an industrial group, such as the Adani Foundation, is entirely in line with established procedures. In this case, it is being done to enhance educational standards and facilities, which ultimately benefits the students.
The school in question, Mount Carmel Convent Higher Secondary School in Chandrapur, is a self-financed institution, and the state has permitted the transfer of its management under specific guidelines. This is not an unusual step, nor is there anything inappropriate about it."
Kesarkar explained that the Adani Foundation will take responsibility for the school’s operations, including the current teaching and non-teaching staff, while adhering to all government regulations.
He emphasized that the government has laid down clear conditions for the transfer, ensuring that minimum student enrollment and other essential criteria will not be compromised. Any complaints about mismanagement or rule violations will be addressed, and the state reserves the right to revoke the transfer if necessary.
The minister stressed that the primary aim of such transfers is to elevate the quality of education. "The School Adoption Scheme is designed for industrial groups to help improve infrastructure and facilities, while leaving the management unchanged. In this case, the Adani Foundation’s involvement will bring additional resources and better facilities, which will only benefit the students."
Kesarkar further explained that industrial groups play an important role in supporting educational initiatives as part of their CSR activities.
"When industries expand into different regions, it is necessary for them to contribute to the local community, especially in areas like education. If an industrial group is willing to take responsibility for providing better education, there is no harm in it."
