“One Nation, One Student” ID Card Scheme Ruffles Feathers in Tamil Nadu: AIFETO Calls For State Intervention!

Chennai – A storm is brewing in Tamil Nadu on allegations of the “One Nation, One Student” student ID card program, part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, supposedly being rolled out in a few private schools without overt clearance or direction by the state government. The AIFETO (All India Federation of Elementary Teachers Organisations), has raised a strong objection and called on Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to step in and safeguard student data privacy.

It was brought to notice by V. Annamalai, AIFETO’s National Secretary and a senior member of the Tamil Nadu Asiriyar Koottani. Quoting a report in the DT Next, he said in a statement, AIFETO Annamalai welcomed and complimented the Tamil Nadu government on its strong resistance to the NEP and three-language formula. But he went on to convey serious concern about reports in an English daily that certain private schools are going ahead with the “One Nation, One Student” ID card system.

Also See :Model Code of Conduct Amendment: Warning or Threat? AIFETO’s Annamalai Questions!

What is the “One Nation, One Student” ID Card Scheme?

The scheme revolves around a single 12-digit identification number for every student named APAAR – Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry. The central government’s Ministry of Education plans to keep a student’s academic records, from school to college, within this electronic ID.

Issues Regarding Data Privacy

Reports say that private schools are reportedly coercing parents into giving Aadhaar information and signing consent forms for APAAR registration. Parents consider this act as an infringement of their privacy. The schools are apparently saying that they are following orders from the central government.

Concerns and Demands of AIFETO

AIFETO Annamalai asks whether private schools are launching the “One Nation, One Student” ID card system without state government sanction. If so,AIFETO sees this as a red flag, and it could signal a move by the central government to circumvent the state education department and try to control Tamil Nadu’s school system.

“How do we explain the application of a central government program in schools in the state government’s jurisdiction, without the sanction of the state?” asked Annamalai. He said parents are rightfully worried about who will ensure the privacy and security of student information.

AIFETO Annamalai opines that the Tamil Nadu government, which is against the NEP 2020, would not have allowed private schools to give their student data to the central government. The organisation, however, emphasises the state government stating that it needs to make its stand clear on this issue urgently.

AIFETO Annamalai is calling for Tamil Nadu government to stop the implementation of the APAAR scheme in the state at once to ensure the privacy of students and parents. They are requesting Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi to take immediate steps and issue orders to concerned officials.

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