Karnataka proposes 15% rural quota in government seats for professional courses

Karnataka has proposed a dual 7.5% reservation within the government-seat quota for eligible rural students, with separate provisions based on whether they studied in government institutions or other rural schools.

The proposed reservation is part of draft amendments to the Karnataka Selection of Candidates for Admission to Government Seats in Professional Educational Institutions Rules, 2006.

Under the proposed Karnataka Selection of Candidates for Admission to Government Seats in Professional Educational Institutions (Amendment) Rules, 2026, the total 15% allocation for rural candidates would be divided equally between two categories.

One 7.5% horizontal quota would cover students who completed Classes 1 through 10 in government schools or government pre-university colleges located in rural areas of Karnataka. These institutions must be administered by the School Education Department.

The other 7.5% would be available to eligible rural candidates who studied from Class 1 through 10 at schools or educational institutions located in rural parts of Karnataka, irrespective of whether those institutions are government-run.

The amendment has been framed under Section 14 of the Karnataka Educational Institutions (Prohibition of Capitation Fee) Act, 1984.

The proposed rules will take effect from the date they are published in the Official Gazette.

The government has invited objections and suggestions from people who may be affected by the proposed changes. Submissions received within 15 days of the draft's publication in the Official Gazette will be considered by the authorities.