Ahmedabad: Around 133 grant-in-aid schools in Ahmedabad city that are yet to refund Rs 2.91 crore in grants received in excess of their eligibility have received a final recovery notice from the district education officer. The schools have failed to refund their excess grants despite repeated reminders, officials said.According to officials, govt grants are allocated annually to aided schools based on student enrolments. Accounts are audited at the end of each financial year and schools are required to refund any excess grant disbursed. Data shows that at least 14 schools individually owe amounts ranging from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 62.6 lakh. Jay Somnath School in Maninagar accounts for Rs 62.55 lakh. The DEO has directed all defaulting schools to immediately deposit the amounts and submit proof of payment. Schools that have already cleared their dues have also been asked to furnish receipts as confirmation.Officials stated that notices had been issued earlier too, but strict action has now been initiated due to continued non-compliance. The latest notice serves as the final warning. In case schools fail to comply, the education department has indicated that it will recommend the district collector to impose a lien on properties of the defaulting institutions, to allow authorities recover the dues through legal means, officials said.
