Haryana government has dealt a setback to families with an annual income of more than Rs 1.80 lakh, but less than Rs 8 lakh, who were hoping to benefit from the Chief Minister Haryana Equal Education Relief, Assistance and Grant (CHEERAG) Scheme for the 2026–27 academic session.The government has rolled back its earlier decision to increase the income eligibility limit under the scheme from Rs 1.80 lakh to Rs 8 lakh per annum.This enhancement, announced on January 28, has now been withdrawn.According to an official communication issued on Monday by the Directorate of Elementary Education, Panchkula, now only students from economically weaker sections studying in recognised private schools, whose family income is Rs 1.80 lakh per annum or less, will be eligible for benefits under the CHEERAG scheme.Income verification will be based on details recorded in the Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP). The CHEERAG scheme is designed to provide access to free, quality education for students from economically disadvantaged families by facilitating their admission to recognised private schools.The communication further states that a valid PPP number will be mandatory for applicants, and only families meeting the revised income criteria will qualify for admission benefits. Authorities have been instructed to ensure that admissions for the 2026–27 academic session are conducted strictly in accordance with these guidelines.Additionally, the Directorate of Elementary Education, Haryana, has directed all District Education Officers and District Elementary Education Officers to begin the admission process under the CHEERAG scheme while adhering to the updated eligibility criteria.