Lucknow: Deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak on Saturday said that the state govt has dismantled the cheating mafia that once aided malpractice in examinations, ensuring a fair environment for sincere students.Speaking at The Times of India-Navbharat Times Education and Career Fair on Saturday, Pathak said: “We can compromise on other expenses but not on education. In the past, cheating mafia undermined merit, but we have acted firmly. The New Education Policy now promotes learning in the mother tongue and focuses on employment-oriented education to shape students’ future.”Pathak urged academicians to share suggestions and said that the govt was ready for reforms and even legal changes, if required.“Infrastructure of schools has improved under Operation Kayakalp, honorariums of shiksha mitras and instructors have been increased, and cashless medical facilities have been extended,” he said.The deputy CM said that special emphasis was laid on imparting education in the mother tongue at the foundational level.He noted that learning in one’s own language improved understanding, strengthened conceptual clarity and helped students connect better with their cultural roots, while also making education more inclusive and effective.“The govt’s plans include universities in every division, mental health support in higher education, student health check-ups and centres of excellence in polytechnics. Smart classes are being introduced from primary to higher levels, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas are being upgraded, and a second Sainik School is coming up in Gorakhpur,” Pathak said.Minister for basic education, Sandeep Singh, said that the improved infrastructure has changed public perception of govt schools, with admissions increasing steadily. He added that curriculum reforms and surveys indicate better learning outcomes.“Education is a shared responsibility of the govt and private institutions, and when both work together, achieving quality and accessible education becomes easier,” said Singh.
