Jammu : February 16, 2025
The Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Association (JKTA) held a press conference at the Press Club of Jammu, highlighting issues concerning the teaching community. Led by UT President Bhupinder Singh, the association strongly demanded rationalization of staff, the initiation of the Annual Transfer Drive (ATD), the formulation of a transfer policy for teachers appointed under the Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) scheme, and the immediate filling of vacant posts at various levels, including Teachers, Masters, Lecturers, Headmasters, Zonal Education Officers (ZEOs), Zonal Education Planning Officers (ZEPOs), Principals, and Ministerial Staff.
During the press conference, several notable trade union leaders joined JKTA, further strengthening its movement. Senior trade union leader Mushtaq Ahmed Malik, Nisar Ahmed from Anantnag, Rafiq Anjum from Ramban, Narain Dutt from Doda, Tahir Nawaz, and Reyaz Ahmed Batt were among those who extended their support to the association’s cause.
The JKTA also emphasized five key areas of focus that define its vision and objectives. Character building remains at the core of their agenda, ensuring that students are nurtured with strong moral and ethical values. Environmental awareness is another crucial aspect, promoting sustainable practices in schools. Management education is a priority to enhance leadership and governance in the education sector. Teacher education is vital for professional development and skill enhancement to ensure quality teaching. Lastly, the association is committed to the promotion of indigenous languages, including Bhaderwahi, Sarazi, Pogali, Bhalessi, Padri, and Kashali, which are an integral part of the cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
The association urged the School Education Department to take immediate action on these issues. Delays in rationalization, transfers, and recruitment are significantly affecting the education system, impacting students’ learning and teachers’ professional growth. JKTA reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding teachers’ rights and working towards the betterment of the education system in Jammu and Kashmir. The association remains committed to advocating for reforms that ensure an efficient, well-structured, and progressive education system for the students and teachers of the region.
The event witnessed the participation of several key office bearers, including UT Senior Vice President Akhter Abbas Naik, Senior Vice Chairman Javid Chuwan, UT Secretary Ishaq Rashid, UT Media Secretary Sadaket Malik, UT Chief Organizer Hamit Wani, Female Wing Provincial President Poonam Thakur, Provincial Senior Vice President Tirth Singh Balwal, Provincial Secretary Kuldeep Katoch, District President Reasi Sajad Ahmed Malik, District President Jammu Madhu Sambyal, Chairman Udhampur Surjeet Katoch, District Senior Vice President Jasbir Singh, Zonal President Pooni Bashir Bajar, Provincial Executive Member Shareef Sehmat, Mohd Hanief, and several others.