Despite spectacular improvement in all spheres of school education in India, contractual teachers, also known as pata-techers/Gurujee, are a significant area of concern. A few states have stopped recruiting regular teachers, instead appointing only para-teachers, and have created different teacher categories: low-salaried contractual teachers. In this section of Education for All in India, we present all about the para-teachers in India.
Para-teachers in school education in India (2023)
Contractual para-teachers are individuals employed by the government to work as school teachers on a contractual basis. They are hired as temporary staff to fill in the gaps created due to the shortage of permanent teachers. This practice has existed in the Indian education system for quite some time. However, the employment of contractual para-teachers in schools has been debated and controversial for several years. In this essay, we will explore the issue of contractual para-teachers in the Indian education system.
The concept of contractual para-teachers has gained popularity in India for various reasons. One of the primary reasons is the shortage of trained and qualified teachers. According Ministry of Education Reports of 2019, the country has a shortage of over one million teachers. In such a scenario, the employment of contractual para-teachers is seen as a quick-fix solution to the problem.
Moreover, contractual para-teachers are employed at a lower salary than permanent teachers. This makes it cost-effective for the government to hire them. As per a report by the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), about 24% of the total teaching staff in government schools in India are contractual para-teachers.
However, the employment of contractual para-teachers in schools has also been criticized for several reasons. One of the significant issues is the quality of education imparted by these teachers. Contractual para-teachers are usually not trained or qualified to teach. They are hired based on their academic qualifications and are not required to undergo any training before they start teaching. This results in a lack of quality education and a negative impact on the students’ overall learning outcomes.
Another issue is the job insecurity faced by contractual para-teachers. They are employed temporarily and do not enjoy the same benefits and job security as permanent teachers which. leads to a lack of motivation and commitment toward their work, negatively impacting the quality of education provided to the students.
Furthermore, contractual para-teachers are often exploited by school authorities who do not provide them with the necessary facilities and resources to teach effectively. They are also not given any opportunities for professional development, which further affects the quality of education provided.
In conclusion, the employment of contractual para-teachers in schools has both advantages and disadvantages. While it may seem like a quick solution to the teacher shortage problem, it is not a sustainable model for providing quality education to students. The government needs to invest in training and to hire qualified teachers instead of relying on contractual para-teachers. This will improve the quality of education and provide job security to teachers, which will lead to a more committed and motivated workforce.
State-wise para teachers in India
As per a report by the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), about 24% of the total teaching staff in government schools in India are contractual para-teachers. The percentage of para-teachers varies from state to state and also depends on the level of education.
In some states, the percentage of para-teachers is higher than the national average, while in others, it is lower. For example, as per the Ministry of Education report in 2019, the percentage of para-teachers in primary schools in Assam was around 50%. On the other hand, in states like Kerala, the percentage of para-teachers is much lower.
The distribution of para-teachers also varies by level of education. For example, in some states, the percentage of para-teachers is higher in primary schools, while in others, it is higher in secondary schools.
Overall, while para-teachers play an essential role in filling the gap created by the shortage of qualified teachers in the country, there is a need for a more sustainable and long-term solution to the problem. The government needs to invest in training and to hire qualified teachers to provide quality education.
Are there para teachers in higher education in India?
No, there are no para-teachers in higher education in India. Para-teachers are limited to the school education sector, where they are hired to fill the gap created by the shortage of qualified and trained teachers. In higher education, all teaching positions are filled by permanent faculty members who are qualified and experienced in their respective fields.
Higher education in India is regulated by the University Grants Commission (UGC), which sets the standards for recruiting faculty members in universities and colleges. The UGC has laid down strict guidelines regarding the qualifications and experience required for various teaching positions in higher education institutions. These guidelines ensure that only qualified and experienced individuals are appointed faculty members.
Therefore, while para-teachers play an essential role in the school education sector, they are not present in the higher education sector in India.
Are there guest faculty in universities in India?
Yes, there are guest faculty members in universities in India. Universities hire guest faculty members to teach courses or offer their expertise for a limited period. They are usually appointed on a contractual basis and are not permanent university employees.
Guest faculty members are typically hired to fill in for regular faculty members on sabbatical leave or to teach specialized courses that require specific expertise that the regular faculty members may not have. They may also be invited to deliver lectures or conduct workshops on a particular topic.
The qualifications and selection process for guest faculty members varies depending on the university and the department. However, they are generally required to have a minimum qualification of a Master’s degree in the relevant subject area, and some prior teaching experience is also preferred.
Guest faculty members are an essential part of the higher education system in India as they bring diverse perspectives and experiences. They also expose students to the latest developments and trends in their fields of study. However, they are not a substitute for regular faculty members, who are responsible for the university’s overall academic and administrative functioning.
How do para teachers and guest faculty affect quality education?
Para-teachers and guest faculty members can positively and negatively affect the quality of education in India, depending on how they are recruited, trained, and managed.
On the one hand, para-teachers and guest faculty members can bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the classroom, enhancing the quality of education. They can also help to bridge the gap created by the shortage of qualified and trained teachers, especially in rural and remote areas.
On the other hand, para-teachers and guest faculty members may not have the same training, experience, and commitment level as regular faculty members. This can result in inconsistent teaching quality, lack of continuity in course delivery, and inadequate assessment and feedback mechanisms, which can all impact the overall quality of education.
In addition, para-teachers and guest faculty members may not receive the same compensation, benefits, and professional development opportunities as regular faculty members. This can lead to a lack of motivation and job satisfaction, which can further impact the quality of education.
Therefore, the government and educational institutions need to ensure that para-teachers and guest faculty members are appropriately trained, compensated, and managed to ensure that they can contribute to the quality of education in a meaningful way. Regular training and professional development opportunities should also be provided to help them improve their teaching skills and keep up with the latest developments in their fields of study. Finally, it is vital to ensure that para-teachers and guest faculty members are integrated into the larger academic community and not treated as second-class citizens.
State-wide percentage of para teachers
As per a report by the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), about 24% of the total teaching staff in government schools in India are contractual para-teachers. However, the percentage of para-teachers varies from state to state in India.
Do all states appoint para teachers in India?
Not all states in India appoint para-teachers in government schools. However, many states in India have adopted the practice of hiring para-teachers to address the shortage of qualified and trained teachers in government schools, especially in rural and remote areas.
The state government typically makes the appointment of para-teachers based on the needs and requirements of each state. Some states have a higher percentage of para-teachers than others, depending on the teacher shortage and the availability of resources to hire and train more qualified teachers.
It is also worth noting that the appointment of para-teachers has been a subject of debate and controversy in India. Some critics question the quality of education that para-teachers can provide and the sustainability of the model in the long term. Some states have been trying to reduce the dependence on para-teachers by recruiting more regular teachers and investing in teacher training and professional development.
What are the educational and professional qualifications of para teachers?
The educational and professional qualifications of para-teachers in India vary depending on the state and the type of school they are working in.
Generally, para-teachers in primary and upper primary schools are required to have a minimum educational qualification of Class 12 (10+2) pass and some basic teacher training such as a Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) or Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree. In some states, para-teachers may also be required to pass a state-level teacher eligibility test (TET) before they can be appointed.
Para-teachers in secondary and senior secondary schools are typically required to have a minimum educational qualification of a Bachelor’s degree and a B.Ed degree or a Master’s degree in the relevant subject area. Some states also require para-teachers to pass a state-level TET or National Eligibility Test (NET) before being appointed.
It is important to note that the qualifications and training requirements for para-teachers are not the same as those for regular, trained teachers. This has been a subject of debate and criticism. Some experts argue that para-teachers may not have the same subject knowledge and pedagogical training as regular teachers, which can impact the quality of education they provide.
In recent years, some states in India have been working to improve the qualifications and training of para-teachers by providing them with more comprehensive training and professional development opportunities. There is still a long way for India to go to ensure that all para-teachers have the necessary qualifications and training to provide quality education to students.
How are para-teachers appointed?
The appointment process for para-teachers in India varies from state to state, but it is typically done by the respective state government or the district education authorities. Here is a general overview of the appointment process:
- Notification: The government or education authorities issue a notification inviting applications for para-teacher positions.
- Eligibility criteria: The eligibility criteria are mentioned in the notification, including educational qualifications, age limit, and other requirements such as a TET or NET certificate.
- Application: Interested candidates can apply for the para-teacher positions by filling out an application form and submitting the required documents.
- Selection process: The selection process typically includes a written exam and an interview. The selection criteria may vary depending on the state and the type of school. In some states, the selection is based on merit or a ranking system, while in others, it is based on a fixed quota system.
- Appointment: Once the selection process is complete, the candidates who meet the eligibility criteria and score well in the selection process are appointed as para-teachers. They are usually given a fixed-term contract, ranging from one year to three years, depending on the state.
It is important to note that the appointment of para-teachers has been controversial and criticized, with some experts arguing that the selection process is not rigorous enough and that the quality of education provided by para-teachers may suffer as a result. Some states have been addressing these issues by providing more comprehensive training and professional development opportunities for para-teachers.
How many schools in India are being managed by para teachers?
It is difficult to provide an exact number of schools managed by para-teachers in India, as the appointment and deployment of para-teachers vary from state to state and even within districts. A report published by the Ministry of Education (formerly the Ministry of Human Resource Development) in 2019, para-teachers are mainly appointed in government schools in rural and remote areas with a shortage of trained teachers.
As per the report, more than 70% of government schools in India are located in rural areas, and many have a high percentage of para-teachers. The exact number of schools being managed by para-teachers in each state may vary, depending on the availability of regular teachers and the extent of the teacher shortage.
It is worth noting that the appointment of para-teachers has been a subject of debate and controversy in India, with some experts questioning the sustainability of the model in the long term and the quality of education that para-teachers can provide. Some states have been trying to reduce the dependence on para-teachers by recruiting more regular teachers and investing in teacher training and professional development.
What is the average salary of para teachers?
The average salary of para-teachers in India varies from state to state and even within districts. Generally, para-teachers are paid less than regular teachers. However, the exact salary may depend on various factors such as the level of education, years of experience, and the type of school they are working in.
As per the report published by the Ministry of Education (formerly the Ministry of Human Resource Development) in 2019, the salary of para-teachers in India ranges from around INR 5,000 to INR 15,000 per month (approximately USD 70 to USD 210), depending on the state and the level of education they are teaching. These figures are only approximate/estimates. The actual salary may vary based on factors such as the school’s location, the availability of funds, and other local factors.
The salary of para-teachers has been a subject of debate and criticism, with some experts arguing that para-teachers are not paid enough for their work and may impact the quality of education they provide. Some states have been working to improve the pay and benefits of para-teachers and providing them with more comprehensive training and professional development opportunities.
Is it profitable to appoint para teachers?
The appointment of para-teachers in India has both advantages and disadvantages. The decision to appoint them depends on various factors, such as the availability of trained teachers, the quality of education, and the financial resources available to the government or school authorities.
One advantage of appointing para-teachers is that it helps to address the acute shortage of trained teachers in many parts of the country, especially in rural and remote areas. Para-teachers are often appointed on a contract basis and paid less than regular teachers, which means they can help reduce the financial burden on the government or school authorities. Additionally, para-teachers can bring fresh perspectives and innovative teaching methods to the classroom, which can benefit students.
However, there are also some disadvantages to appointing para-teachers. One primary concern is the quality of education that para-teachers can provide, especially if they are not adequately trained or supported. Para-teachers may also lack job security and benefits such as health insurance, pension, and leave entitlements.
In conclusion, the appointment of para-teachers can be a profitable decision in certain circumstances, such as in areas with a shortage of trained teachers. However, it is important to ensure that para-teachers are adequately trained, supported, and compensated and that their quality of education is not compromised.
Have states stopped appointing regular teachers, and why?
No, states in India have not stopped appointing regular teachers. While the appointment of para-teachers has increased in recent years, regular teachers continue to be the backbone of the education system in India. Regular teachers are generally appointed through a competitive selection process, such as the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET), and are expected to have minimum educational qualifications and training.
The appointment of para-teachers has been primarily driven by the shortage of trained teachers, especially in rural and remote areas, and the need to provide education to a large and diverse population. Para-teachers are often appointed on a contractual basis and paid less than regular teachers, which helps to reduce the financial burden on the government or school authorities.
However, the appointment of para-teachers has been a subject of debate and controversy, with some experts questioning the sustainability of the model in the long term and the quality of education that para-teachers can provide. Some states have been trying to reduce the dependence on para-teachers by recruiting more regular teachers and investing in teacher training and professional development.
In conclusion, while the appointment of para-teachers has increased in recent years, regular teachers continue to be an essential part of the education system in India, and states have not stopped appointing regular teachers. The appointment of para-teachers has been driven by the shortage of trained teachers and the need to educate all sections of the population. However, efforts are being made to improve the quality of education and teachers’ working conditions, both regular and para.
Do we have female para teachers also?
Yes, female para-teachers are appointed in India, and their numbers have increased in recent years. The appointment of female para-teachers has been seen as a positive development, as it helps to address the gender gap in education and provides female students with role models and mentors.
Female para-teachers are appointed on a contractual basis, like their male counterparts, and are paid less than regular teachers. However, the appointment of female para-teachers has been criticized in some quarters, as they may be subjected to discrimination and may lack job security and benefits such as maternity leave and childcare support.
Efforts are being made to improve female para-teachers’ working conditions and benefits. Some states have introduced reserved quotas for female para-teachers, training and professional development programs, and health and welfare benefits. However, more must be done to ensure that female para-teachers can provide quality education and are not subject to discrimination or exploitation.
What benefit are para teachers getting?
Para-teachers in India are generally appointed on a contractual basis and are paid less than regular teachers. However, they may also receive some benefits and incentives depending on the policies of the state or the school authorities. Some of the benefits that para-teachers may receive are:
- Fixed-term contract: Para-teachers are usually appointed on a fixed-term contract, which provides them with some job security for the duration of the contract.
- Salary: Para-teachers are paid a salary that may be lower than regular teachers but still provides them with some income and financial stability.
- Training: Some states or school authorities may provide training and professional development programs for para-teachers to help them improve their teaching skills and increase their employability.
- Incentives: Para-teachers may be eligible for incentives or bonuses, such as performance-based pay, depending on their work and achievements.
- Social security: Some states or school authorities may provide social security benefits such as health insurance, pension, and leave entitlements to para-teachers, although these benefits are generally less comprehensive than those available to regular teachers.
The benefits and incentives available to para-teachers may vary depending on the policies of the state or the school authorities and may not be available to all para-teachers. Additionally, the quality of these benefits and incentives may vary. Some para-teachers may still face challenges such as low pay, lack of job security, and inadequate training and support.
How are para teachers different from regular teachers?
Para-teachers and regular teachers in India have significant differences in their qualifications, appointment, job security, and working conditions. Some of the differences are:
- Qualifications: Regular teachers must have specific educational qualifications such as a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree and, in some cases, a Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree. Para-teachers, on the other hand, may not have formal teaching qualifications and may have only completed secondary or higher secondary education.
- Appointment: Regular teachers are appointed through a competitive selection process such as the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET). In contrast, para-teachers are often appointed on a contractual basis and may not have to pass a competitive exam.
- Job security: Regular teachers are generally appointed on a permanent or long-term basis and have greater job security than para-teachers, who are appointed on a short-term or fixed-term contract.
- Working conditions: Regular teachers are entitled to various benefits (paid leave, health insurance, and retirement), which is not available to para-teachers. Additionally, regular teachers may have access to better training and professional development opportunities and a more structured and supportive work environment.
- Pay: Para-teachers are generally paid less than regular teachers, although the exact pay scale may vary depending on the policies of the state or the school authorities.
In conclusion, while both para-teachers and regular teachers play a critical role in the education system in India, there are significant differences between the two in terms of their qualifications, appointment, job security, working conditions, and pay. Regular teachers generally have higher qualifications, better job security, and access to more benefits and training opportunities than para-teachers.
Is it reasonable to stop appointing para teachers in India?
Whether it is good to stop appointing para-teachers in India depends on availability of regular teachers, the quality of education provided by para-teachers, and the financial resources of the education system.
Para-teachers have been appointed in India to address the shortage of regular teachers, especially in rural and remote areas. While para-teachers have played an essential role in improving access and increasing enrollment rates, concerns about their qualifications, training, and job security may affect their education quality.
In recent past, efforts have been made to improve the quality of education para-teachers provide through training programs, incentives, and performance-based pay. However, there are still concerns about the sustainability of the para-teacher system and whether it is a long-term solution to the shortage of regular teachers.
Ultimately, the decision to stop appointing para-teachers or to continue with the system depends on various factors, such as the availability of regular teachers, the quality of education provided by para-teachers, and the financial resources of the education system. It may be beneficial to invest in training and supporting para-teachers to improve the quality of education they provide while exploring strategies to recruit and retain more regular teachers in the education system.
By appointing para teachers, is it not a violation of the RTE Act 2009?
The appointment of para-teachers in India may not necessarily violate the Right to Education (RTE) Act as long as the para-teachers are appointed per the provisions of the Act.
The RTE Act mandates that all schools have sufficient qualified teachers to ensure every child receives a quality education. The Act defines a “qualified teacher” as a person with the necessary academic and professional qualifications and the requisite training to teach at the appropriate level. The Act also specifies that the teacher-pupil ratio in schools should be maintained at 1:30.
Para-teachers are appointed to address the shortage of qualified teachers in some areas and ensure every child has access to education. However, para-teachers must also meet specific qualifications and training requirements under the RTE Act. For example, the RTE Act mandates that all teachers, including para-teachers, must have a minimum qualification of a Diploma in Education (D.Ed.) or a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree. In addition, para-teachers must receive adequate training and support to ensure they can provide quality education to their students.
So, if the appointment of para-teachers is made by the qualifications and training requirements of the RTE Act, it may not be considered a violation of the Act. However, suppose para-teachers are appointed without meeting the necessary qualifications and training requirements, or they cannot provide quality education to their students. In that case, it could be seen as a violation of the RTE Act.
Is in-service training also being imparted to para teachers?
Yes, in-service training programs are often provided to para-teachers in India to improve their teaching skills and ensure they can provide quality education. The government may organize these training programs, non-governmental organizations, or other education-related institutions.
The in-service training programs for para-teachers typically focus on various aspects of teaching, such as classroom management, pedagogy, curriculum planning, and assessment. The training programs may be conducted regularly and organized at the district or block level to ensure that all para-teachers in a given area have access to training.
In addition to training programs, para-teachers may receive support from regular teachers and other education professionals to help them improve their teaching skills. This support may include mentoring, coaching, and feedback on their performance.
Providing in-service training and support to para-teachers is vital for improving the quality of education they provide and ensuring that every child has access to quality education. Investing in the professional development of para-teachers can enhance their teaching skills, increase their job satisfaction, and improve learning outcomes for students.
Do para teachers perform better than regular teachers?
It is difficult to compare the performance of para-teachers and regular teachers in India, as their roles and responsibilities may differ based on various factors such as qualifications, training, and experience.
Para-teachers are generally appointed to address the shortage of qualified teachers in some areas and ensure every child has access to education. While they may not have the same qualifications and experience as regular teachers, para-teachers are playing a critical role in improving the quality of education in underserved areas.
Para-teachers’ performance can depend on various factors, such as the training they receive, their motivation to teach, their ability to engage with students, and the support they receive from the school administration. In some cases, para-teachers may perform better than regular teachers in certain areas or under certain circumstances, while in other cases, regular teachers may perform better.
Ultimately, the goal should be to ensure that every child has access to quality education, regardless of whether para-teachers or regular teachers teach them. Investing in the professional development of all teachers, providing them with adequate training and support, may improve the quality of education for all students.
How long does a para teacher continue?
The tenure of para-teachers in India can vary depending on the state government’s policies or the organization that hires them. In general, para-teachers are appointed on a contractual basis, and their contracts may be renewed based on their performance and the school or organization’s needs.
The duration of the contract can also vary, but it is typically for one to three years. After the initial contract period, para-teachers may be eligible for renewal based on their performance, attendance, and other factors.
In some cases, para-teachers may be absorbed into the regular teaching staff after completing a certain service period and may be eligible for the same benefits and promotions as regular teachers. However, this can vary depending on the state government’s policies or the organization that hires them.
Overall, the tenure of para-teachers in India can be somewhat uncertain, as their contracts are typically renewable and subject to the school or organization’s needs. However, para-teachers can be essential for ensuring every child has access to quality education. Providing adequate training and support is vital to help them succeed in their roles.
Is there any TET for para teachers?
Yes, many states in India require para-teachers to clear a Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) in order to be eligible for an appointment. The TET is an examination that tests candidates’ knowledge and teaching aptitude and is designed to ensure that only qualified and competent individuals are appointed as teachers.
The state government or a designated agency typically conducts the TET. It may consist of multiple-choice questions on language proficiency, teaching methodology, and subject-specific knowledge. The TET may also include a practical or teaching demonstration component, where candidates must demonstrate their teaching skills in a natural or simulated classroom environment.
Clearing the TET is often a prerequisite for appointment as a para-teacher in many states and may be valid for a certain period (e.g., five years) before it needs to be renewed. The TET is an essential step in ensuring that para-teachers have the knowledge and skills to provide quality education to their students. It helps maintain a certain level of standards in the teaching profession.
What about the professional qualification of para-teachers?
The professional qualifications required for para-teachers in India can vary depending on the state government’s policies or the organization that hires them. Para-teachers are generally expected to have specific education and training to be eligible for an appointment.
In some states, para-teachers are required to have a minimum educational qualification of a high school diploma or a bachelor’s degree. In contrast, in others, they may be required to have a diploma or degree in education. Some states may also require para-teachers to have a certain level of training or experience in teaching, either through formal training programs or on-the-job training.
In addition to educational qualifications, para-teachers are also expected to have good communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to engage with students and motivate them to learn. They are also expected to be proficient in the language of instruction, whether it is Hindi or English, or a regional language, depending on the state.
Overall, while the professional qualifications required for para-teachers may vary, they must have the knowledge, skills, and experience required to provide quality education to their students. This can be achieved through formal education and training, as well as on-the-job experience and professional development opportunities.
When shall para teachers make regular?
Regularizing para-teachers in India is a matter of policy and varies from state to state. Generally, para-teachers are appointed on a contractual or temporary basis and may be given a fixed term of employment or a renewable contract.
In some states, para-teachers may be regularized after a certain period of service or after meeting specific eligibility criteria, such as clearing a Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) and obtaining a certain level of education or training. However, this process can be slow and may vary depending on the policies of the state government and the availability of resources.
Regularizing para-teachers can have several benefits, including providing job security, improving working conditions, and promoting greater accountability and professionalism in the teaching profession. However, it is essential to ensure that para-teachers have the qualifications and experience to provide quality education to their students and that they are held to the same standards as regular teachers.
Ultimately, the decision to regularize para-teachers depends availability of the resources, the needs of the education system, and the state government’s policies. Any decision to regularize para-teachers must be made in consultation with stakeholders and based on evidence-based research and best practices.
