SRINAGAR: Education Minister Sakeena Itoo on Sunday said a comprehensive transfer policy for Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) teachers is in the final stages of preparation and that the government is examining various issues raised by the teaching community for resolution through established procedures.
Addressing a Mega Teachers’ Conference organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Rehbar-e-Taleem Teachers Forum (JKReTTF) at the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) campus in Bemina, Itoo said teachers play a key role in shaping society and stressed the need to protect their rights while ensuring professional accountability.
She said the draft transfer policy had already been placed in the public domain for stakeholder feedback and that suggestions received were being examined for incorporation where feasible.
The minister said the government recognised the contribution of teachers, particularly those appointed under the Rehbar-e-Taleem scheme who served in remote and underserved areas. According to her, the scheme helped expand access to education in regions where schools previously lacked adequate teaching facilities.
Itoo said issues raised by teachers during the conference would be examined seriously and addressed within the framework of existing rules and procedures. She added that several matters require action at departmental and administrative levels and are already under consideration.
Referring to a recent resolution passed by the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly concerning teachers’ issues, the minister said it reflected the government’s commitment to the teaching community. She said the resolution had provided an opportunity for legislators to discuss concerns affecting teachers and the need to safeguard their legitimate interests.
The minister also urged teachers and their representatives to ensure that service records and supporting documents related to promotions and other service matters are properly compiled and submitted to avoid delays in processing cases.
She reiterated that the government would continue engaging with the teaching community and work towards resolving long-pending issues through a structured and time-bound process.
Director School Education Kashmir, Naseer Ahmad Wani, also addressed the conference and highlighted the role of ReT teachers in improving access to education, particularly in remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir.
During the event, the JKReTTF submitted a memorandum to the minister outlining various demands related to teachers’ welfare and professional advancement. Representatives of the forum also welcomed the Assembly resolution on teachers’ issues, saying it had strengthened their confidence in the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns.
