Sun Feb 15 08:58:48 UTC 2026: ### Maharashtra Teachers Face Job Loss Risk Over TET Qualification by 2027

The Story:
Over 1.1 lakh teachers in Maharashtra’s government and private schools, aged over 50, are required to pass the Teachers Eligibility Test (TET) by September 2027 to retain their positions, according to data accessed by The Indian Express. This mandate stems from a Supreme Court ruling in September 2025, which requires TET certification for many in-service teachers. The data, compiled by the Maharashtra school education department, reveals that nearly 90% of the state’s teaching workforce is affected, as they were appointed before 2011, when TET was introduced as a qualifying criterion.

The looming deadline raises concerns about potential job losses and staffing shortages, particularly in primary schools, where only a small fraction of teachers are currently TET-qualified. Teachers’ organizations argue that penalizing experienced educators for not having a qualification that was not required at the time of their appointment is unjust. The state government has also communicated with the central government and NCTE regarding the ruling’s implementation. Furthermore, teachers who have not passed the TET will not be eligible for promotions.

Key Points:

  • Over 1.1 lakh teachers in Maharashtra aged over 50 need to clear TET by September 2027.
  • The Supreme Court’s September 2025 ruling mandates TET for many in-service teachers.
  • Nearly 90% of Maharashtra’s teaching workforce is affected, appointed before 2011.
  • Primary schools have the highest number of non-qualified teachers, with nearly 92% lacking TET.
  • Teachers failing to qualify within two years of the order face compulsory retirement.
  • Teachers without TET cannot be promoted to graduate teacher, headmaster, etc.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Supreme Court ruling has significant implications for experienced teachers in Maharashtra.
  • The retrospective application of TET requirements raises concerns about fairness and potential teacher shortages.
  • The Maharashtra government is seeking clarification from central authorities regarding the implementation of the ruling.
  • Non-compliance with TET requirements can significantly impede career advancement within the education sector.
  • The ruling highlights the evolving standards and qualifications within the teaching profession.

Impact Analysis:

The Supreme Court ruling and its enforcement in Maharashtra will likely have several long-term impacts:

  • Teacher Shortages: The potential retirement of a significant number of experienced teachers could lead to staffing shortages, particularly in primary schools.
  • Educational Quality: While the intention is to improve teaching quality, the loss of experienced teachers could temporarily disrupt the educational process.
  • Teacher Training and Recruitment: The focus on TET qualification may shift resources toward training and recruitment efforts to fill potential vacancies.
  • Legal Challenges: Teacher organizations might pursue further legal challenges or appeals to mitigate the impact of the ruling.
  • Policy Revisions: The central government might need to revise the TET policy to address concerns about its retrospective application and potential unintended consequences.

    Read More

Related News: