First Computerised Draw of Lots for EWS and Disadvantaged Groups in Primary School Held in Delhi

The first computerised draw of lots for admission of students under the economically weaker section (EWS) and disadvantage group (DG) category for entry level classes in private schools was conducted recently in Delhi. Over 2.5 lakh applicants registered for approximately 42,000 seats in various private schools. The draw of lots is special this time because it was conducted publicly in the presence of Delhi education minister, Ashish Sood. Multiple screens were installed at the venue, so that parents could see the process in real time.

Admission Process

All the students selected in the draw will receive a message by the evening and will be called to the Directorate of Education (DOE) office for document verification.

“We have multiple safeguards to make sure that process remains fair. This includes a redraw option in cases of objection, strict restrictions on cell phone usage in the venue and complete video surveillance. The entire process was carried out under the supervision of a special commission from DoE, which will also submit a sealed CD of the final results,” said minister Sood.

Admission to primary level private schools in Delhi is a big hassle for parents. Last December, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena approved the increase of EWS income limit from ₹2.5 lakh to ₹5 lakh, allowing more children to benefit from quality education. Meanwhile, the registration period for children with special needs, transgender students and other categories has been extended.