TN Assembly adopts resolution to exempt TET for teachers appointed before Aug 2010

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has unanimously adopted a resolution seeking a permanent exemption from the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) for government teachers appointed before August 23, 2010. School Education Minister A. Rajmohan stated that this move is crucial for the job security of around 328,701 teachers across the state who have served for 15 to 20 years without interruption.

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fully and permanently exempt

Rajmohan emphasized that forcing these experienced educators to pass a new exam now is viewed as a threat to their livelihoods. The resolution specifically calls upon the Union Government to amend Section 23 of the Right to Education Act 2009, enabling official NCTE guidelines for this permanent exemption. The aim is to ensure these teachers continue to receive all job benefits, including promotions, without obstruction.

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approximately 3,28,701 government school teachers across the state will be affected by the Teacher Eligibility Test requirement as they face the risk of losing their job benefits or their positions if they do not pass the exam.

The minister explained that the TET has been a mandatory qualification under the Right to Education Act 2009, and a recent Supreme Court ruling reinforced the need for current teachers to clear the exam for promotion or risk job loss. The Assembly's resolution highlights the unfairness of this requirement for seasoned professionals and advocates for safeguarding their career growth.

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many teachers have put in 15 to 20 years of service without interruption, and making these experienced educators pass a new exam now is viewed as a threat to their job security and livelihoods.

Members from various parties, including DMK, AIADMK, CPI, and PMK, supported the resolution, which was passed by a voice vote. The issue was previously raised by the DMK government before the Supreme Court, and the current administration's efforts aim to secure central legislation to resolve the matter.

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Hence, the Assembly through a resolution urges the Union Government to provide a permanent exemption from the TET for teachers appointed before 23 August 2010, amend Section 23 of the Right to Education Act 2009 to facilitate this exemption through official NCTE guidelines, and ensure that these teachers continue to receive all job benefits, including promotions, without obstruction.