Big Relief for 1.42 Lakh Shiksha Mitras in Uttar Pradesh: Transfer Orders Issued, Women to Benefit Significantly

Lucknow News: In a major order, the Uttar Pradesh government has directed that all the Shiksha Mitras deployed in the state’s primary schools will be allowed to revert back to their original postings. This move has been considered a New Year gift for resolving the long-pending demands and relieving about 1.42 lakh Shiksha Mitras.

The order, that was issued by the Department of Basic Education allows Shiksha Mitras three choices: an option to stay in the present school, one to return back to their originally posted school and thirdly they can be deployed at another school also within the village, panchayat, or ward when a vacancy comes up. While for women Shiksha Mitras, it is specially provided that women Shiksha Mitras be deployed in any school of husband’s district after providing proof of residence.

Relief for Women Shiksha Mitras

Dr. M.K.S. Sundaram, Principal Secretary of the Basic Education Department, said that women Shiksha Mitras can choose to continue in their present schools, revert to their original postings, or be deployed in their husband’s village or district if a vacancy is available. Those who wish to continue in their present schools need not do anything further.

For years, Shiksha Mitras have been demanding either a return to their original schools or an increase in their honorarium. Recent movements and protests brought the issue to the forefront, with media reports further highlighting their plight. Responding to these concerns, the government has taken a proactive approach, culminating in the issuance of this order.

In July 2018, an opportunity similar to this one was offered. It was a great boon to many Shiksha Mitras. But then, around 20,000 to 25,000 were left out. Now, as circumstances are changing, such as the marriage of many women Shiksha Mitras, the new order will benefit around 30,000 to 40,000 people.

Relief for Male and Unmarried Shiksha Mitras

Male and unmarried Shiksha Mitras have also been given the choice to either continue in their present schools, revert to their original postings, or be accommodated in vacant positions in the same locality if required. This way, their deployment is not unnecessarily affected.

Important Features of the New Order

Choices for Female Shiksha Mitras:

• Remain in the present schools.
• Return to original postings.
• Transfer to schools in the husband’s district.

Choices of Male and Unmarried Shiksha Mitras:

• Continue to present schools
• Revert back to their initial postings
• Transfer in the same local area if openings are available.

No Further Step Needed:

Shiksha Mitras who want to continue in the same school for which they do not need to make any applications.

Beneficiaries and Financial Implication

Shiksha Mitras currently get ₹10,000 as an honorarium every month. Although the latest directive does not touch upon the demand for an increase in the honorarium, it has long-standing demands regarding flexibility in transfer, which it satisfies. The new policy will benefit 30,000 to 40,000 Shiksha Mitras, who are expecting much-needed relief and stability from this move.

This development is coming at a significant juncture as it addresses the woes of Shiksha Mitras and provides better job satisfaction. The government’s timely response has garnered appreciation from all sections in Uttar Pradesh to the education community at large.