Maharashtra Government Deploys 147 Retired Teachers on Temporary Contracts to Address Learning Gaps
In a strategic move to mitigate student learning losses during ongoing teacher vacancies, the Maharashtra government has appointed 147 retired educators on a temporary contractual basis. These appointments, confirmed in the state legislative assembly on Friday, involve a monthly honorarium of Rs 20,000 per teacher and are specifically targeted at schools under the Chandrapur Zilla Parishad.
Stop-Gap Measure Awaits Regular Recruitment Through Pavitra Portal
School Education Minister Dadadji Bhuse clarified that this initiative aligns with the department's established policy of utilizing retired teachers as a stop-gap solution. The arrangement is designed to ensure educational continuity for students while the state progresses with transparent, permanent recruitment via the Pavitra portal. Bhuse emphasized that this is a temporary measure, intended to be phased out once regular teachers are formally appointed.
Addressing Concerns Over Bypassing Unemployed Youth
The decision sparked questions from Chandrapur MLA Kishore Jorgewar, who raised concerns about whether eligible DEd and BEd qualified unemployed youth were being overlooked in favor of retired teachers. Jorgewar inquired if this approach has generated resentment among teacher unions and unemployed graduates, and whether the government would reconsider the appointments.
In response, Minister Bhuse acknowledged receiving representations from elected representatives and teacher unions advocating for the appointment of DEd and BEd graduates instead. He reiterated that the current move is solely a provisional arrangement to prevent disruptions in students' education, with no intention to sideline qualified young candidates.
Progress on Regular Teacher Recruitment Pipeline
Bhuse provided updates on the state's broader recruitment efforts, noting that approximately 9,214 candidates from the 2017 examination and about 23,871 candidates from the 2022 examination have been recommended for appointment through the Pavitra portal. To ensure a steady supply of eligible educators, the state has also conducted the Teacher Aptitude and Intelligence Test 2025, aimed at bolstering the pipeline for regular teacher recruitment across Maharashtra.
This multi-faceted approach underscores the government's commitment to balancing immediate educational needs with long-term, transparent hiring practices, ensuring that student learning remains uninterrupted during transitional periods.
