Punjab Board Mandates New Balvatika Classrooms and Toy Corners for Pre‑Primary Schools

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & CONTEXT FOR PARENTS

The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) has issued a comprehensive directive that redefines pre‑primary education across the state. Effective from the academic year 2025‑26, every registered pre‑primary centre (Balvatika) in Ludhiana, Amritsar and other districts is required to establish dedicated Balvatika classrooms, toy‑based activity corners, and adhere to stringent safety guidelines. The directive aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) emphasis on play‑based, well-rounded learning and the Punjab State Council for Educational Research and Training (SCERT) framework for early childhood education (ECE). Parents can anticipate a more structured admission process: applications for pre‑primary seats must now be submitted by 15th September each year, with the final list released by 30th November. The new guidelines also introduce a “pre‑primary readiness” assessment, ensuring children aged 3–5 years enter a curriculum that blends cognitive, socio‑emotional, and motor skill development. The directive’s implementation deadline is 31st December 2025. Schools that fail to comply risk temporary suspension of their pre‑primary licence. Parents should verify that their chosen institution has received the PSE