Recognizing their achievements, positive impacts, and struggles is crucial for their continued motivation and dedication

Cognitive, conceptual, analytical, and intellectual prowess are the cornerstones of educational advancement. In the realm of education in Jammu and Kashmir, the Rehbar-e-Taleem teachers embody these qualities, contributing significantly to the region’s progress. However, their remarkable contributions often go unnoticed, and it is imperative to recognize and celebrate their achievements to foster further development.
At the heart of any effective education system lies a well-informed, motivated, and capable teaching force. The Rehbar-e-Taleem teachers in Jammu and Kashmir exemplify these characteristics. Failing to acknowledge their invaluable contributions could impede the ongoing progress and development in the region. In the pursuit of a robust education system, good-quality data is not just desirable but necessary for effective management, fraud prevention, performance assessment, and efficient service delivery.
Among the most discussed yet least celebrated employees in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir are the Rehbar-e-Taleem teachers. Despite being a topic of numerous discussions, their factual contributions, sacrifices, and unique roles remain overshadowed. It is time to shed light on these educators who diligently work in challenging environments, propelling education in far-flung areas.
A glance at the ninth five-year plan of India (1997-2002) emphasizes the significant focus on education. Subsequently, the Right to Education became a fundamental right with the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2002. In the context of Jammu and Kashmir, a new recruitment scheme was introduced in 2000, and the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) was launched in 2003. The recruitment process was transparent, merit-based, and closely monitored, ensuring fairness and accountability.
One of the monumental achievements of the Rehbar-e-Taleem teachers lies in the effective implementation of the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2002 and the RTE Act of 2009 at the grassroots level. These legislative measures guarantee free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14, presenting a formidable challenge, particularly in remote rural areas. The teachers appointed to schools in these areas became the backbone of education, often referred to as “all-season teachers.”
Another significant accomplishment is the marked improvement in literacy rates. Jammu and Kashmir’s literacy rate increased from 39.9% in 2001 to an impressive 68.74% in 2023. This positive trend underscores the tangible impact of initiatives like SSA and the relentless efforts of Rehbar-e-Taleem teachers. Enrollments, gross enrollment ratios, and drop-out rates have witnessed substantial improvements, reflecting the effectiveness of these educational interventions.
Despite receiving meager stipends for a period of five years, these teachers, with diverse qualifications, selflessly fulfilled their duties. Their commitment to their jobs is evident in their prolonged stays in the same schools and their significant contributions to community well-being. Beyond their primary teaching roles, Rehbar-e-Taleem teachers have played essential roles in non-teaching assignments, showcasing their tenacity, competency, and mettle.
In addition to creating a positive learning environment and shaping young minds, Rehbar-e-Taleem teachers have been pivotal in instilling values and contributing to curriculum implementation. Their involvement in various non-teaching assignments within and outside the education department demonstrates their multifaceted capabilities. Recognizing their achievements, positive impacts, and struggles is crucial for their continued motivation and dedication.
It is essential to appreciate and encourage the Rehbar-e-Taleem teachers who have played a pivotal role in the educational landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. Their unsung contributions have been instrumental in propelling positive changes in literacy rates, enrollment figures, and overall educational outcomes. As we navigate the complexities of educational development, acknowledging and celebrating these educators is not just a form of recognition but a catalyst for sustained progress.
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Rayees ul Islam