The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to procure stitched school uniforms from private firms
July 6, 2026: The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to directly procure fully stitched school uniforms from private firms under a new centralised procurement model, replacing the earlier system that relied on self-help groups (SHGs). According to the tender, only companies with a turnover of at least ₹700 crore over the last three financial years and significant government fabric business will be eligible to bid. MSME Minister Chetan Kashyap said the move is aimed at supporting the state’s garment industry and boosting the local economy.
The government said the decision was taken to ensure better quality and timely delivery of uniforms. Officials noted that since 2024, funds have been transferred directly to parents’ bank accounts instead of awarding contracts to SHGs, citing repeated complaints over delays and inconsistent quality. School Education Minister Rao Uday Pratap Singh said the new procurement system would address these issues and improve the distribution process for government school students.
The decision is expected to impact thousands of women who were engaged in stitching school uniforms under the State Rural Livelihood Mission. Introduced in 2018, the scheme provided employment to nearly 90,000 SHG members after training. However, many women reportedly faced financial hardship after uniform orders were halted due to quality concerns and delayed supplies. The government said it remains open to reviewing complaints and taking corrective action if necessary.