For lakhs of children studying in government schools across the country, here is some cheering news. In a historic move, the HRD ministry has proposed Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) in government school system.

Simply put, children in government schools could study in fully equipped classrooms. Interestingly, all benefits for the children — free uniforms, midday meal and free textbooks — will continue to be extended under the PPP model. Just that, the government control will be limited to monitoring.

‘‘There is a large unfulfilled need for quality education in the secondary education sector. It does not appear feasible for state governments to fill this gap in the short term due to constraints on budget and capacity. PPP emerges as a viable alternative to improve access to quality school education while ensuring equity and social justice. We also felt quality of education can be significantly enhanced as there will be accountability,’’ official sources told TOI.

The HRD ministry has invited comment from all private stake holders and those interested in taking the initiative forward before November 9. The ministry has worked out two models for carrying out the plan.