17/09/2026
*JKTJAC Welcomes Ministry of Education’s Proposal to Review TET Framework; Urges Practical Relief and Exemption for In-Servce Teachers*
Srinager. 16th September-The Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Joint Action Committee (JKTJAC), its entire executive body, strongly welcomes the initiative taken by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, to propose a comprehensive review of the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) framework. The decision to re-examine the current provisions, especially regarding serving teachers, is a timely and empathetic response to the genuine, long-standing grievances faced by the teaching community across the nation, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir.For years, thousands of dedicated, in-service teachers who were recruited under valid, state-approved policies have faced severe mental anxiety, promotional stagnation, and salary hurdles due to the rigid, retrospective enforcement of the TET qualification under the RTE Act, 2009. These teachers have dedicated decades of their lives to shaping the future of our children in the most challenging terrains, and testing their eligibility at this advanced stage of their careers ignores their vast classroom experience and practical pedagogical skills. JKTJAC appreciates that the Ministry has taken cognisance of the representations submitted by teacher associations and has acknowledged the practical difficulties faced by serving teachers. The commitment to consult State Governments, UT Administrations, and the NCTE to build a "workable and fair framework" is a step in the right direction. As a primary stakeholder representing the interests of teachers in J&K, JKTJAC puts forth the following urgent recommendations for the upcoming consultation process: *One-Time Exemption for Serving Teachers:* We strongly demand a complete, one-time relaxation or exemption from the TET requirement for all teachers who were appointed prior to the strict enforcement of the RTE guidelines in the UT, or those who have completed a minimum of 5 to 10 years of unblemished service. Their classroom experience should be deemed equivalent to the eligibility criteria. *Age-Appropriate and Tailored Evaluations:* For serving teachers required to clear the test, the evaluation should focus on practical pedagogy, classroom management, and past performance, rather than conventional, memory-based competitive examinations that disadvantage senior personnel.
*Regularization of Exams:* We welcome the Ministry's proposal to conduct TET exams at regular, predictable intervals, ensuring that new aspirants are not left stranded due to administrative delays. JKTJAC urges the UT Administration of Jammu and Kashmir to strongly advocate for the relief of local serving teachers during the upcoming consultations with the Central Ministry. We stand ready to provide our input and expert feedback to ensure that this review culminates in a fair, transparent, and employee-friendly policy that protects the dignity and livelihood of our nation's builders.
Courtesy:-
*Media Cell,*
*Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Joint Action Committee (JKTJAC)*