TET mandatory for government teachers in West Bengal; rule to apply to these teachers..

There is an important update for teachers currently employed in West Bengal government schools who have not yet passed the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET). The state's School Education Department has issued directives to the School Service Commission (SSC) and the Primary Education Board regarding this matter. Under these guidelines, teachers working in primary and upper primary schools who have more than five years of service remaining must pass the TET within the stipulated timeframe. In accordance with Supreme Court directives, it is mandatory for these teachers to pass the TET by August 31, 2028. Failure to comply with this rule could impact their employment and promotion prospects.

**Which teachers must take the TET?**
This rule does not apply to all government teachers in West Bengal. It covers only those currently employed teachers who have not passed the TET and have more than five years of service left. Such teachers are required to pass the exam by August 31, 2028.

**Exam may be held twice a year**
To provide teachers with adequate opportunities, plans are underway to conduct the TET annually in West Bengal. If necessary, the exam could be held twice a year, with a proposed gap of approximately six months between the two tests. The School Education Department has sought a report from the SSC and the Primary Education Board regarding this matter.

**What happens if the TET is not passed?**
Eligible teachers who fail to pass the TET within the prescribed period may face adverse consequences. They could be denied promotions, and their employment could even be terminated. However, the rule applies only to teachers who fall within the specified eligibility criteria.

**Impact on approximately 1 lakh teachers**
In the past, TET was not mandatory in West Bengal, leading to the recruitment of many teachers without the qualification. The number of such teachers is estimated to be around 1 lakh. Now, these eligible teachers must pass the TET within the timeframe set by the Supreme Court directives.

**Special TET rule in UP**
In Uttar Pradesh, teachers in council schools who have already passed the TET are not required to take the 'Special TET.' This examination is intended for teachers who have not yet passed the TET or CTET. The Basic Education Department has issued instructions regarding the registration and participation in the examination for such teachers.

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