Assam Government Addresses Concerns Over Polyester in School Uniforms

Guwahati, June 28: Assam’s Education Minister Ranoj Pegu announced on Saturday that the state government adheres to strict regulations regarding the purchase of school uniforms. To ensure compliance, lab tests are conducted to verify that the blend of polyester and cotton meets established standards.

Responding to allegations of excessive polyester use in government-supplied school uniforms, Pegu told reporters in Sivasagar that uniforms are procured according to government guidelines, with random samples tested for quality assurance.

“The specifications clearly state the required proportions of polyester and cotton. We randomly collect samples from schools and test them in labs to ensure the fabric meets the established criteria,” he explained.

Pegu emphasized that suppliers found violating regulations are issued notices, and appropriate action is taken against them. He clarified that the government does not permit the supply of uniforms made entirely from polyester.

“We have banned 100% polyester uniforms. According to the specifications, the fabric should contain approximately 30% cotton, which is confirmed through lab testing,” he stated.

The minister noted that the cotton content has always been set at around 30%, and the procurement process adheres to approved standards for blended fabrics.

Addressing concerns raised by some experts about the health effects of polyester, Pegu urged a balanced perspective on the issue. “Many fabrics available in the market today contain a blend of polyester. It is incorrect to claim that all polyester fabrics are harmful. The key point is whether the specified blend of cotton and polyester is maintained,” he said.

Pegu assured that if any school receives uniforms that do not meet the specified standards, the government is prepared to investigate the matter. “If anyone reports a school where the polyester content exceeds the allowed limit, we will conduct an immediate inquiry. We are already performing random testing of uniforms supplied to educational institutions,” he added.

The minister reiterated the state government’s commitment to maintaining quality standards in school uniforms supplied under its welfare programs.