Secretary Education Dispels Rumours on Tablet Distribution
Leh, Sept 23: In a firm rebuttal to circulating allegations, Bhanu Prabha, Secretary of the School Education Department, UT Ladakh, on Tuesday dismissed claims of mismanagement in the procurement and distribution of tablets to students in government schools across the Union Territory. Terming the rumours as “baseless,” she reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and equitable access to digital education.
Addressing the media, the Secretary emphasized that all procurement and distribution processes were conducted strictly in accordance with government regulations. “All tablets were procured through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal, adhering meticulously to prescribed guidelines. Direct procurement from online sellers is not permissible for any government department, as it contravenes official norms,” she clarified.
Responding to speculations that the tablets were being reclaimed from students, Bhanu Prabha categorically denied such claims. “Once allotted, the tablets are not taken back. To date, 20,000 tablets have been distributed to students across Ladakh, and efforts are underway to ensure that more students benefit from this initiative,” she asserted.
The Secretary further noted that the tablets being provided are Made in India products and come with a warranty from the supplier. She emphasized that the initiative reflects the administration’s ongoing commitment to enhancing digital education access, particularly in remote areas of the Union Territory.
In addition, Bhanu Prabha highlighted that the Department of School Education is concurrently working on strengthening the physical infrastructure of government schools. “Alongside providing digital tools, we are upgrading and improving school facilities to create a better learning environment for our children,” she stated.
The clarification comes amid widespread rumours and misinformation regarding the quality, procurement, and usage of the tablets. The Secretary’s media briefing was intended to dispel doubts and reaffirm the government’s steadfast commitment to transparency, accountability, and the provision of improved educational facilities for students across Ladakh.
