Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 18 September 2023
In a move aimed at alleviating the financial hardships faced by Samagra Shiksha contractual staff in the Education Department, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, the Member of Parliament representing Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has called upon the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration to expedite the release of their pending salaries.
The plea comes in the wake of recurrent delays in disbursing payments to contractual teachers, staff, which have left them grappling with financial uncertainty. To address these challenges, Mr. Sharma has also proposed the establishment of a reserve fund to ensure that these essential workers receive their due compensation, even in cases where administrative procedures cause delays.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma emphasised the critical importance of resolving the salary payment issues faced by hundreds of dedicated Samagra Shiksha contractual staff in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. This group includes Sarva Siksha Contractual Teachers, Pre-Primary Teachers, ICT Instructors, and Vocational Teachers, who have endured nearly four months without their salaries. This predicament has not only inflicted severe hardship upon them but has also hampered their ability to fulfil their crucial roles effectively.
The Member of Parliament underscored the vital role played by these educators in shaping the future of students. He lamented that the delay in salary disbursements has pushed some of them, particularly Pre-Primary Teachers, ICT Instructors, and Vocational Teachers, who already receive low consolidated salaries, to the brink of financial desperation. Many have been compelled to borrow money simply to meet their daily expenses.
Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma further noted the added financial burden faced by teachers stationed away from their homes, especially those in remote and far-flung islands, who contend with house rent and travel expenses. He stressed that the extended period of non-payment has taken a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of these educators, whose commitment to delivering quality education in challenging circumstances is commendable.
“It is our responsibility to ensure that they are adequately compensated and supported in their roles,” the Member of Parliament declared, calling for urgent action to address the financial woes faced by contractual staff within the Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ Education Department.