Primary Teachers to Begin Statewide Protest from December 1

Primary school teachers across Odisha have announced a major protest starting December 1, warning that the responsibility for the situation arising in schools will rest solely with the state government if their long-pending demands are not fulfilled by November 30.

Two Key Demands at the Centre of the Agitation

The Odisha Primary Teachers’ Federation has decided to intensify its agitation over two primary demands:

• Upgradation of the basic post with a Grade Pay of ₹4,200

• Counting six years of service (2001–2024) as part of their regular employment period and granting six national increments

The organisation said these demands have been ignored repeatedly, leaving them with no option but to take to the streets.

Teachers Burdened with Multiple Non-Teaching Duties

The Federation stated that primary teachers have been playing a crucial role not only in teaching but also in implementing a range of government programmes, including:

• Right to Education (RTE)

• Food security and mid-day meal monitoring

• Health awareness drives

• Special schemes for adolescent girls

• Various administrative responsibilities

Despite their contribution, the teachers allege that the government has shown “little seriousness” in addressing their grievances.

Federation Holds Government Responsible for Any Disruption

The Primary Teachers’ Federation issued a stern warning that any disruption in school functioning from December 1 will be the government’s responsibility. They emphasised that their demands are legitimate, long overdue, and essential for ensuring teachers’ dignity and financial stability.

Key Leaders Present at the Meeting

Several representatives from various teacher associations attended the meeting, including:

• Purnnananda Acharya, Working President, OPITA

• Ajay Kumar Dhal, President, OIBTAF

• Sushant Behera, President, AOPTA

• Praveen Kumar Das, General Secretary, OITA

• Subrat Kumar Dhal, Level V-A Convener

• Ajit Kumar Maharana and other senior members

These leaders collectively supported the decision to launch the statewide agitation.