HGCTA Joins National Movement Against Central Government’s Anti Education Policies.
Shimla:
The Himachal Pradesh Government College Teachers Association (HGCTA) has pledged its support for a national movement organized by the All India Federation of University and College Teachers’ Organisations (AIFUCTO) to challenge the central government’s anti-education policies.
AIFUCTO is advocating for the repeal of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, a 10% increase in the education budget, and the restoration of increments for MPhil and PhD programs. Dr. Banita Saklani, AIFUCTO’s National Vice President and HGCTA President, criticized the NEP for undermining the federal structure and diminishing state roles in education.
In Himachal Pradesh, numerous demands from college teachers remain unresolved, notably the suspension of increments for MPhil and PhD programs since 2014. Dr. Saklani emphasized that contract faculty receive only 40% of the UGC pay scale, raising concerns about workforce exploitation.
HGCTA is also advocating for regular teacher recruitment and full staffing for educational and non-teaching positions, along with the implementation of the 8th Finance Commission’s recommendations. Dr. Saklani expressed strong support for AIFUCTO’s initiatives and the urgent need for reforms in the education sector.
