Himachal Vocational teachers strike: Education Minister vows action as Teachers demand end to contractor model

Himachalscape bureau November 5, 2024 2 minutes read

Shimla, Nov 5,

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Amid an escalating standoff over delayed salaries and unpaid arrears, Education Minister Rohit Thakur addressed the grievances of vocational teachers in Himachal Pradesh, signaling potential action against errant contractors. Thakur revealed that among the 17 private companies tasked with outsourcing employees to the government, only one had defaulted on timely payments. “An explanation has been sought from this company, and if found unsatisfactory, it may face delisting from the government panel soon,” Thakur warned.

During a media briefing, Thakur acknowledged meeting a delegation of vocational teachers last month who demanded a salary hike—a move the government sanctioned. However, he took a firm stand on the ongoing protests, urging teachers to return to work for dialogue to proceed. “We are open to discussion and will consider all genuine demands within the state’s purview, but this strike is unnecessary and misdirected. It needs to end,” he asserted.

The strike, which began Monday, has disrupted classes in over 1,100 government schools, affecting thousands of students. The vocational education program, launched in 2013 and serving more than 80,000 students in grades 9 to 12, relies on these outsourced teaching staff.

Vocational teachers, however, argue that the problem is systemic. Ashwani Dhatwalia, leader of the teachers’ front, highlighted that salary delays are a recurring issue under the current model involving 17 private service providers. “Every month, payments are delayed by one company or another. We demand that the contractor system be abolished. Other states, like Haryana, pay directly through central government channels—why can’t we?” Dhatwalia questioned. He also pointed out that the state suffers a 14 percent financial loss by paying commissions to these companies.

Dhatwalia clarified that teachers are not seeking further hikes or arrears. “The salary increase mentioned by the minister was approved by the central government months ago. Our demand is for timely, direct payment without middlemen. With MOUs up for renewal in November, now is the time for change,” he insisted.

Despite the government’s stance, the teachers’ front has made it clear that protests will continue. “We have not been invited for dialogue yet, so our movement will go on until our voices are heard and action is taken,” Dhatwalia affirmed.

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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