Pune, June 1 -- The school education department on May 29 introduced significant reforms to the 'free school uniform scheme' from the academic year 2026-27, aimed at improving the quality of uniforms, ensuring timely distribution, and strengthening local participation through women's self-help groups (SHGs). As per the reforms, the scheme will continue to be implemented through school management committees (SMCs) even as several new measures have been introduced to improve accountability and quality. District-level implementation will be monitored under the supervision of district collectors, chief executive officers of zilla parishads, police superintendents, and education officials to ensure that all eligible students receive uniforms. The revised guidelines focus majorly on the quality of fabric. SMCs have been directed to procure durable and skin-friendly fabric that is not made entirely of polyester but contains a prescribed blend of polyester, viscose, and cotton to ensure comfort and longevity. The government has introduced a multi-tier inspection mechanism to monitor quality. Cluster heads will be required to inspect 100% of schools; block education officers at least 30% of schools; and education officers a minimum of 10 schools in every taluka. If poor-quality fabric is detected, samples have to be immediately sent to laboratories for testing. Then, the reports will be submitted to the Maharashtra Primary Education Council....