Financial Aid Distributed to Families of Deceased Teachers in Assam
Support for Families of Contractual Teachers
Guwahati, June 12: On Thursday, Education Minister Dr. Ranoj Pegu provided financial support of Rs 5 lakh each to the families of 13 deceased contractual teachers and educational staff.
The distribution took place during a solemn event at the Samagra Shiksha Assam office located in Kahilipara, Guwahati. Dr. Pegu explained that this assistance is part of the contractual agreement for employees hired under Samagra Shiksha Assam, which operates under the state's Education Department.
Dr. Pegu noted that these teachers were integrated into the education system during the tenure of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma as Education Minister, and their positions were nearly regularized at that time.
“These educators were promised contractual employment until the age of 60, contingent on annual performance evaluations. Although there is no pension plan, our contract clearly stated that in the event of a teacher's death while in service, the government would provide Rs 5 lakh to their family,” Dr. Pegu stated.
Today, the Education Department received all necessary documentation from the 13 families, allowing for the distribution of the financial aid. However, 93 additional families have yet to submit essential documents, including the next-of-kin certificate, which is required for processing the aid.
“We are currently waiting for certificates from 93 more families. Once we obtain these through the district commissioners, we will proceed with their cases as well,” the Minister added.
During his address, Dr. Pegu also issued a strong warning to unregistered schools throughout Assam, emphasizing that no educational institution will be permitted to operate without proper registration and necessary internal infrastructure.
“We have given strict directives to SEBA, AHSEC, and district officials. We will not allow children to enroll in unregistered schools. The Education Department will conduct awareness campaigns to inform parents,” he asserted.
As the new academic year approaches, the Minister announced plans to establish a committee of education experts and intellectuals to evaluate potential changes to the academic calendar.
“We intend to form a committee comprising knowledgeable educationists and retired principals, and we will consider their recommendations. Rather than the department making unilateral decisions, we prefer to seek advice from experienced educators,” he concluded.