Benefit for Over One Lakh Teachers and Officers
The Odisha government, on March 9, announced a revision in the pay structure for primary school teachers across the State. This move is set to benefit over one lakh teachers and officers. The decision was approved by the Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, raising their pay structure by one level.
Cabinet Statement
A statement released after the Cabinet meeting read, “In consideration of the various demands of the elementary teachers, headmasters, and officers working in the elementary cadre, the government is pleased to modify their pay structure.” This modification is expected to benefit 1,04,350 teachers, headmasters, and officers, with the government allocating an additional amount of ₹587 crore annually for this purpose.
Importance of the Decision
This decision holds significant importance, especially ahead of elections, given the substantial number of primary teachers actively engaged in public interactions. Primary schoolteachers have been persistently advocating for salary revisions, organizing protests to draw the government’s attention.
Retirement Assistance
Following the changes in the pay structure, teachers and non-teaching staff will also become eligible for assistance at the time of retirement, providing further support and security.
Incentive for Mission Shakti Community Support Staff
Recognition of Contributions to Women Empowerment
In a separate announcement on Saturday, Chief Minister Patnaik increased the incentive for community support staff of Mission Shakti, which supports self-help groups. This move will benefit 59,509 community support staff members. Patnaik, in a statement, highlighted that this decision was made in recognition of their valuable contribution to women empowerment in the State.
Biju Patnaik Aviation Centre to be Established in Dhenkanal District
Boost for Aviation Training
Additionally, in another significant decision, the Odisha government approved ₹562 crore for the establishment of the Biju Patnaik Aviation Centre at Birasal airstrip in Dhenkanal district. The campus will feature simulator facilities and provide training for pilots, cabin crew, and other staff.
These developments mark substantial progress in the state’s education sector, particularly for primary school teachers, and also demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting women empowerment and enhancing aviation training facilities.
