Lakhs of teachers will not get any exemption from TET; government responds in Parliament

New Delhi: There has been a long-standing debate regarding the mandatory nature of the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET). Amidst this, the Central Government has clarified in Parliament that it currently has no plans to grant exemptions from the TET requirement for teachers. The government further stated that the rules governing the TET will remain in effect in accordance with the minimum qualifications prescribed by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE).

Union Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary informed Parliament that, pursuant to Supreme Court directives, the TET is mandatory not only for the appointment of teachers but also for promotions in eligible cases. Therefore, there is currently no proposal to abolish the TET requirement or grant exemptions from it.

What was effect of the Supreme Court Verdict?

Recently, in a ruling, the Supreme Court stated that teachers employed in schools under the Right to Education (RTE) Act—who have not yet passed the TET and have more than five years of service remaining before retirement—must clear the exam within a stipulated timeframe. Later, while hearing a review petition, the Court granted relief to teachers by extending the deadline for passing the TET from August 31, 2027, to August 31, 2028. Additionally, the Court directed states to make efforts to conduct the TET at least twice a year.

What did the Government Say?

The government was asked in Parliament whether consideration was being given to exempting long-serving teachers from the TET requirement. In response, the government clarified that there is no such plan at present. This means that, under current regulations, teachers for whom the TET is mandatory must pass the exam within the prescribed deadline.

Why is TET Essential?

According to the government, the objective of the Teacher Eligibility Test is to ensure quality education in schools. The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) has mandated the TET as a minimum qualification for teachers to ensure the appointment of competent and trained educators in schools.