Textbook distribution likely to be delayed

KOCHI: It seems that the distribution of textbooks in the state will be delayed this time too. The inefficiency of private agencies which are entrusted with the task of distribution is said to be the reason for the delay.
Though May 27 is the last date for completing the distribution of the textbooks, the process has not reached half way. "The printing of textbooks has almost been completed. The distribution of textbooks has been entrusted with two courier agencies," said M Beena, managing director, Kerala Books and Publications Society (KBPS). The distribution of textbooks has almost been completed in Thiruvananthapuram and Kasargod districts. "We do not expect much delay in completing the distribution," Beena said. Earlier, the textbooks were directly distributed by the Education Department. Last year, the job was assigned to the postal department. As the postal department quoted high rates this time, the tender for distribution of textbooks was awarded to private courier agencies.