Assam govt explains school uniform policy amid polyester concerns
Guwahati, June 27
Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu on Saturday said that the state government follows strict specifications while procuring school uniforms and conducts laboratory tests to ensure that the polyester and cotton composition adheres to prescribed standards.
Responding to allegations regarding the excessive use of polyester in government-supplied school uniforms, Pegu told reporters in Sivasagar that the uniforms are procured as per government guidelines and that random samples are tested to verify their quality.
"The specifications clearly mention the required polyester and cotton composition. We conduct laboratory tests on randomly collected samples from schools to check whether the fabric meets the prescribed standards," the minister said.
He said that suppliers found violating the norms are issued notices and that appropriate action is taken against them.
Pegu clarified that the government does not permit the supply of uniforms made entirely of polyester.
"We have prohibited 100 per cent polyester uniforms. The specifications require around 30 per cent cotton in the fabric, and this is verified through laboratory testing," he said.
The minister said that earlier the prescribed cotton content was around 30 per cent and that the procurement process continues to follow approved standards for blended fabric.
Referring to concerns raised by some experts over the health impact of polyester, Pegu said the issue should be viewed in perspective.
"Today, many garments available in the market contain polyester blends. It is not correct to say that every polyester fabric is harmful. The important issue is whether the prescribed blend of cotton and polyester has been maintained," he said.
Pegu maintained that if any school receives uniforms that do not meet the prescribed specifications, the government is prepared to investigate the matter.
"If anyone points out a particular school where the polyester content exceeds the prescribed limit, we will immediately conduct a verification. We are already carrying out random testing of uniforms supplied to educational institutions," he added.
The minister asserted that the state government remains committed to ensuring quality standards in school uniforms supplied under its welfare programmes.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Why not go for 100% cotton? In Assam's humidity, even 30% polyester can make kids sweat uncomfortably. Cost cutting over child welfare, typical government approach. Lab tests are fine, but what about actual comfort in 35°C heat? 🥵
Good to see the minister addressing concerns. As someone who works in textile industry, 70:30 poly-cotton is standard for school uniforms globally. Cotton-rich blends are more breathable but need ironing, which many families can't afford daily. Practical compromise. 👌
As a parent who moved from US to Assam, I'm surprised this even became a controversy. Polyester blends are common everywhere. The real issue is whether the government is actually enforcing quality checks. Random testing sounds good, but need transparency in results. 😊
Minister Pegu is right - not all polyester is evil. My kids' school uniforms basically last two years and still look decent because of blend. Pure cotton uniforms would tear in months with our kids playing. But 30% cotton minimum should be strictly monitored. 😅
The health concerns about polyester are real, especially for children with sensitive skin. But let's also remember that most affordable clothing in India is polyester blend. The government should focus more on ensuring no supplier cheats with cheap low-quality fabric. That's the real scam! 💰
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