In the bid to cover teacher shortages and ensure that schools under the government have the minimum pupil-teacher ratio (PTR), the Directorate of Education (DoE) has increased the contractual association of teachers of Samagra Shiksha-Delhi for another year. The extension up to March 31, 2026, ensures the continued employment of thousands of instructors in different educational institutions in Delhi. The move is a relief to many teachers who were earlier employed on a contractual basis and were uncertain about their tenure.

As per the new order from the DoE, this extension is made for upper primary and elementary school teachers serving in various educational institutions, such as the Department of Education, School of Specialised Excellence (SOSE), and schools operated by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). The decision is to ensure that schools do not lack teaching staff, which might impact students’ learning experience and overall academic performance.

According to the directive, a total of 248 upper primary teachers and 151 primary teachers working in MCD schools under diverted capacity will remain on duty under the extended contract. Besides, 2,099 primary teachers already working in MCD schools will also be benefited from this move. These teachers have a significant role to play in supporting the education system, particularly in government schools where there is usually a deficiency of permanent teaching staff.

The assignment of these contract teachers will mostly stay in their current schools, as long as there is a requirement for them by student enrollment and school needs. But if there are no vacancies in the same institutions, the teachers will be deployed to other schools within the district where they are needed. This step prevents wastage of resources and ensures students still get quality education without interruptions.

Even with the extension, the DoE has imposed certain conditions for re-engagement so that only qualified teachers are kept on board. One of the major conditions is that teachers who have a dereliction of duty record will not be offered re-engagement unless they are given special clearance by the respective District Project Officer (DPO). This condition highlights the government’s resolve to uphold discipline and professionalism among educators so that only committed and responsible teachers remain on the job.

In addition, contractual teachers who have been absent without sanctioned leave or have negative reports against them shall not be considered for re-engagement in the 2025-26 academic year. The decision highlights the need for accountability among contractual staff and is an attempt to maintain the standards of teaching in government schools. By establishing these terms, the authorities endeavor to provide students with instruction from dedicated and trained professionals who are committed to their duties.

In order to formalize the extension, the DoE has directed all District Project Officers (DPOs) and Deputy Directors of Education (DDEs) to provide new agreements and offer letters to the contractual teachers whose contracts ended on March 31, 2025. The provision of new agreements takes place to ease a transition to the next academic year and clarifies employment terms and conditions.

This move indicates the Delhi government’s constant efforts to reinforce the education department by overcoming personnel problems and enhancing students’ learning outcomes. In giving the contract extension to these teachers, the administration recognizes their hard work and appreciates how these teachers have an instrumental role in deciding the fate of young learners.

The step will not only help the teachers but also benefit thousands of students who are learning in government and MCD schools. Having enough strength of teachers is important to achieve effective class room learning, student participation, and overall success at the academic level. Students in these schools can pursue their studies without any break, while the teachers will be able to concentrate on quality teaching without facing the fear of job loss.

Through the years, contract teachers have been a critical component in bridging the gaps within the education system, especially in government schools where permanent hiring has been sluggish. The continuation of their services makes it possible for students, especially those who come from economically challenged backgrounds, to receive uninterrupted and regular education. This also assists the government in improving the teacher-student ratio and filling up classrooms.

While this extension brings relief to many, it also highlights the ongoing need for a long-term solution to address teacher shortages in government schools. Many education experts and teacher associations have been advocating for the regularization of contractual teachers to provide them with job security and better working conditions. A more stable workforce in the education sector would ultimately benefit students and improve the overall quality of education in Delhi’s government schools.

Until then, the expansion of contractual work under Samagra Shiksha-Delhi is a stopgap but unavoidable arrangement to maintain the operations of schools and fund students’ education. The proactive initiative of the government in ensuring that classrooms are not teacherless reflects its dedication to education and the well-being of both students and teachers.

With the commencement of the new academic year, thousands of educators will again serve the education sector by influencing young minds and grooming them for their futures. Their contributions continue to be imperative toward meeting the greater vision of giving high-quality education to all the children, regardless of socio-economic statuses. By granting this extension, the government once again goes in the direction of bridging the shortage of teachers with preserving higher levels of educational quality within the Delhi public schools.