JK Assembly to take up resolution seeking TET exemption for teachers appointed before 2019

Srinagar: In the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly autumn session, Education Minister Sakeena Itoo is set to move a resolution seeking exemption of teachers from the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET).

Government teachers have been opposing the mandatory TET requirement. If accepted by the Government of India, the proposed resolution could provide relief to teachers appointed before January 1, 2019.

The resolution urges the Centre to amend Section 23 of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, to exempt all teachers appointed before January 1, 2019, from appearing for the TET.

It also calls upon the Government of India to take the necessary legal steps and direct the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) to issue the required notification granting the exemption.

The Assembly is also expected to witness discussion on the Jal Jeevan Mission probe report, which was tabled in the House on Monday by National Conference MLA Hasnain Masoodi, chairman of the House Committee investigating the matter.

Members are also likely to take up a Bill introduced by Cooperative Minister Javid Ahmad Dar seeking amendments to the Jammu and Kashmir Cooperative Societies Act, 1989. The legislation proposes repealing the Jammu and Kashmir Self-Reliant Cooperative Act, 1999, while providing transitional arrangements for self-reliant cooperatives under the 1989 Act. The minister is expected to move the Bill for consideration and passage.

The first day of the session witnessed heated exchanges after BJP members accused the government of failing on the governance front over the past two years. The ruling side, meanwhile, pressed for the restoration of statehood and accused the BJP of delaying the process, alleging that the prolonged absence of statehood had weakened the government and disempowered the people of Jammu and Kashmir.