The Maharashtra state education department has announced a statewide enrollment verification drive set to take place from April 11 to April 22, 2024. This initiative will include students from Classes 1 to 9 and Class 11, marking the first time Class 1 students are part of the process. However, the timing has sparked significant backlash from teachers, as the verification coincides with the Periodic Assessment Tests (PAT), which are critical for student evaluations. Teachers argue that this overlap will increase their workload and complicate their responsibilities during a busy examination period. They also question the need for physical verification, given that the government already maintains student data through Aadhaar-based records, APAAR IDs, and the UDISE+ system. Prominent figures, such as Jayant Asgaonkar (Member of Legislative Council from Pune) and Mahendra Ganpule (former spokesperson of the state principals’ association), have called for a postponement of the verification drive. Despite the objections, the education department plans to proceed, emphasizing the importance of accurate enrollment data. Concerns have also been raised regarding the inclusion of Class 1 students, as many schools may have already begun summer vacations, potentially requiring teachers to work during this period. As the verification dates approach, discontent among teachers continues to grow, with many urging the government to reconsider the schedule.