Bhubaneswar: Responding to the long-standing demands of Gana Sikhyakas in the state, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik declared a significant hike in their monthly remuneration and introduced measures for regularization.
As per the government’s notification, the monthly salary of Gana Sikhyakas who have not passed the Odisha Teacher Eligibility Test (OTET) has been increased from Rs 7,000 to Rs 10,000. This substantial increment, benefiting 1,121 Gana Sikhyakas across the state, addresses a key concern raised by the teaching community.
The decision to enhance the salary came after repeated appeals from the Gana Sikhyakas, directed towards V K Pandian, Chairman of 5-T and Nabin Odisha. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, recognizing the importance of their role in the education system, took prompt action to address their grievances.
Additionally, Chief Minister Patnaik has taken steps to regularize the services of Gana Sikhyakas who have passed the OTET, designating them as Med Teachers (Ex-cadre). This move is expected to benefit 1,472 Gana Sikhyakas, providing them with stability and recognition.
In another positive development, the government has approved an annual increment for Assistant Teachers (Ex Cadre) who have successfully cleared the OTET. A total of 9,520 assistant teachers (ex-cadre) stand to benefit from this decision, recognizing their commitment to meeting the required educational standards.
The announcement comes in response to the persistent demands of Gana Sikhyakas for regularization and a pay hike, an issue they have been championing for the past five years. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s decision reflects the government’s commitment to acknowledging and uplifting the teaching fraternity, ensuring a conducive environment for quality education in the state.