Why Has Bengal Initiated Primary Teacher Recruitment After Eight Years?
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Synopsis
In a significant move after eight years, West Bengal has opened online applications for primary teacher recruitment, amidst ongoing scrutiny from the Calcutta High Court. With over 13,000 vacancies, this initiative aims to enhance the state's primary education system, reflecting the government's commitment under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's leadership.
Key Takeaways
- First recruitment in eight years
- 13,421 vacancies available
- Eligibility: Teachers Eligibility Test (TET) qualification
- Minister highlights importance of recruitment for education
- Previous recruitment occurred in 2017
Kolkata, Nov 19 (NationPress) The online application process for the recruitment of primary teachers in state-run schools in West Bengal commenced on Wednesday, marking the first recruitment drive in eight years.
This new recruitment effort emerges as the division bench of the Calcutta High Court has concluded its final hearings regarding alleged irregularities in the previous appointments of around 32,000 primary teachers, with a verdict imminent.
The announcement for the recruitment was made in September. The West Bengal Board of Primary Education has opened applications for 13,421 vacancies. Starting Wednesday, candidates who have passed the Teachers Eligibility Test can submit online applications for assistant teacher positions in government-approved and sponsored primary and junior (basic) schools.
In anticipation of the recruitment process, Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu shared a post on X, indicating that the online portal for TET-qualified candidates would become accessible on Wednesday for applications to primary teaching roles. He emphasized that the government sees this recruitment drive as a crucial step to enhance primary education under the chief minister's guidance.
“From tomorrow, the West Bengal Board of Primary Education will launch its online portal, allowing eligible TET-cleared candidates to apply for Assistant Teacher positions in government-approved and sponsored primary and junior basic schools. This recruitment initiative is intended to further solidify the foundation of primary education under the wise and benevolent leadership of the state’s Hon'ble Chief Minister Smt. Mamata Banerjee,” the Minister stated in his post.
The last recruitment drive for primary teachers took place in 2017. After nearly eight years, the board has released a new notification.
Job seekers have consistently taken to the streets advocating for recruitment, and last Thursday, they staged a protest in front of the primary education board’s office in Salt Lake, Kolkata.
Point of View
The resumption of primary teacher recruitment in West Bengal is a vital development, reflecting both the government's response to public demand and the ongoing judicial scrutiny of past recruitment processes. This initiative, if executed transparently and effectively, could play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of education in the state, benefiting countless students.
NationPress
19/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the online application process for primary teacher recruitment begin?
The online application process commenced on November 19, 2023.
How many vacancies are available for primary teachers in West Bengal?
There are 13,421 vacancies available for primary teachers.
What is the eligibility criteria for the positions?
Candidates must have cleared the Teachers Eligibility Test (TET) to apply.
When was the last primary teacher recruitment held?
The last recruitment for primary teachers took place in 2017.
What role does the Calcutta High Court play in this situation?
The Calcutta High Court is currently reviewing alleged irregularities from the previous recruitment process.
