Thu Nov 21 18:59:34 UTC 2024: ## Uttar Pradesh’s 1.5 Lakh Shikshamitras Await Salary Hike Before New Year
**Lucknow, [Date of Publication]:** A significant salary increase is on the horizon for approximately 1.5 lakh Shikshamitras (para-teachers) working in Uttar Pradesh’s primary schools. The state’s education department has submitted a proposal to the finance department, paving the way for a potential hike before the new year.
The move follows a 2023 contempt petition filed in the Allahabad High Court by Shikshamitras demanding equal pay for equal work. The court, hearing a petition filed by Varanasi resident Vivek Anand, directed the government to ensure a respectable salary commensurate with their work.
Subsequently, a high-level committee was formed on January 12, 2024, to assess and recommend a suitable salary increase. The committee submitted its report on August 9, 2024, acknowledging the potential financial strain on the state exchequer and recommending approval from the finance department.
The finance department’s approval is now crucial for implementing the salary hike. Optimism is high regarding a swift approval, leading to the issuance of the order by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Currently, Shikshamitras receive a monthly stipend of ₹10,000.
Chief Minister Adityanath has already indicated his support for the Shikshamitras’ demands, discussing the matter with members of the Legislative Council and assuring a timely resolution. A meeting between Shikshamitra organizations and Minister Sandeep Singh in October further solidified hopes for a positive outcome.
The potential salary hike before the new year would bring significant relief to the Shikshamitras and demonstrate the government’s commitment to fair compensation for their services.
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