Maharashtra Extends TET Deadline For Compassionate Ground Teachers To 5 Years
Maharashtra Extends TET Deadline For Compassionate Ground Teachers To 5 Years
In a significant decision, the Maharashtra School Education Department has extended the deadline for primary school teachers appointed on compassionate grounds to clear the mandatory Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) from three years to five years.
This move aligns with the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) guidelines, which made TET compulsory for primary teachers in 2010. The NCTE notification dated August 23, 2010, fixed the minimum educational and professional qualifications for primary teachers of classes 1 to 8.
The Maharashtra government had initially exempted teachers appointed on compassionate grounds from passing TET in 2016. However, this decision was later reversed to comply with NCTE guidelines, making TET mandatory for newly appointed teachers on compassionate grounds.
According to the revised decision, teachers appointed on compassionate grounds will now have five years to clear either the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) or TET. Failure to meet this requirement may result in termination or reassignment to other positions.
The government’s decision has sparked mixed reactions, with some appreciating the additional time and others questioning the sudden change from the original directive. “The extension will provide relief to teachers struggling to pass the exam. However, the government should provide supporting infrastructure and training to help teachers clear the test,” said education expert, Dr. Anita Desai.
The Maharashtra School Education Department’s decision is expected to impact thousands of teachers appointed on compassionate grounds across the state. While the extension provides breathing room, it remains to be seen how effectively teachers will utilize this additional time to meet the eligibility criteria.
