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Goa Tables Bill to Raise Class 1 Entry Age to Six

The proposal brings state law into line with national education policy, with passage still pending.

Overview

  • Chief Minister Pramod Sawant introduced the Goa School Education (Amendment) Bill, 2026 to substitute Section 18 of the 1984 Act governing school admissions.
  • Children must be at least six years old on or before June 1 of the admission year to enter Class 1 or an equivalent class in recognised schools.
  • A one-time relaxation permits entry in 2025–26 for children who are five years six months on or before June 1, 2025.
  • First-time applicants to higher classes will be ineligible if their age, after deducting normal years from that class to Class 1, is under six.
  • The government characterises the change as regulatory with no financial impact, stating admissions will continue under rules it frames, and the bill awaits Assembly action.