Concerned over discrimination against children in schools on the basis of caste, religion and community, Sonia Gandhi-led National Advisory Council has suggested measures to the government to tackle the issue.

Defining as to what is tantamount to discrimination in schools, training teachers to tackle the problem and encouraging schools to be more sensitive are some of the suggestions made by the NAC to the HRD ministry.

Pointing out the problems in school premises and classes, NAC said it has received complaints of discrimination in providing seats, water and even in the mid-day meal, while reviewing the implementation of the Right to Education Act.

The Council said discrimination against children on the basis of their caste, religion, community, gender, family occupation, physical disability and even giving preference to few may affect their overall growth and development.

The Council has suggested to have a discussion with state governments on the issue and requested for suggestions from experts and teachers in this regard by January 28.