The Delhi government has approved the procurement of 10,000 dual desks from the Tihar Jail Factory to address furniture shortages in its schools. The decision, cleared by the Delhi Cabinet, is part of a phased plan to meet the total demand of nearly 25,000 desks across government schools.
The government said sourcing desks from Tihar jail supports inmate rehabilitation and skill development. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta noted that the furniture produced in Tihar is comparable to PWD standards and around 25% cheaper than market rates.
Officials said the Education department had conducted a survey in April that found that 23,321 dual desks were required across 127 schools. Requests were also made later to increase the number.
In the first phase of the procurement, 10,000 desks will be provided to the schools at an estimated cost of Rs 8.95 crore, including GST, transportation and ancillary expenses.
The Education department had allocated a fund worth Rs 20 crore in the 2025-26 Budget for furniture procurement.
