How Did CM Bhupendra Patel Honor 37 Educators on Teachers’ Day?

Ahmedabad, Sep 5 (NationPress) Gujarat's Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel hosted a remarkable event known as "Prerna Samvad" (inspiration dialogue) on Friday, honoring 37 educators from 19 districts for their exceptional contributions to the state's educational landscape.

This gathering, which took place at the CM's residence, was the inaugural interaction aimed at appreciating the vital role teachers play in molding the futures of students.

CM Patel highlighted that the unwavering dedication of teachers has transformed government schools into the preferred choice for many parents, stating that a teacher is second only to a mother or God in a child’s life.

"Educators impart not just academic knowledge but also provide students with practical insights essential for their overall development," he noted.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister declared that vacant positions in government schools will be filled promptly, reaffirming his administration's commitment to enhancing public education through modernized classrooms, reliable infrastructure, mid-day meals, and the Mukhyamantri Alpahar Yojana, which offers fresh and nutritious snacks.

He emphasized that these initiatives have significantly increased enrollment in government schools while also elevating children's nutrition levels.

Patel stressed the critical need to lower dropout rates, encouraging teachers to persist in their roles as motivators and collaborate closely with School Management Committees and local communities.

"The future of our nation relies on the shoulders of our students, and it is our collective duty to ensure that every child receives an education," he asserted.

During the ceremony, educators shared their insights and innovative approaches, discussing methods to boost attendance and prepare students for competitive examinations. Each teacher was honored with a certificate of appreciation from Patel.

Among those present were senior officials like Additional Chief Secretary M.K. Das, Finance Secretary T. Natarajan, and Education Secretary P. Bharti, alongside other education professionals and department heads.

In the upcoming 2025–26 state budget, Gujarat has earmarked a significant Rs 59,999 crore for the education sector, accounting for approximately 15.1 percent of the total state expenditure, which is slightly above the national average of 14.7 percent.

This funding will support numerous initiatives: Rs 2,914 crore will enhance over 25,000 classrooms under the Mission Schools of Excellence; Rs 1,250 crore is allocated for the Namo Lakshmi scheme promoting girls’ education, while Rs 782 crore will benefit students under the RTE Act.

Additional initiatives include Rs 250 crore for the Namo Saraswati Science Scheme (benefiting 2.5 lakh students), student transportation subsidies of Rs 223 crore, infrastructure enhancements for Gyan Shakti residential schools (Rs 200 crore), generous scholarships under Gyan Sadhana (Rs 100 crore) and Gyan Setu (Rs 70 crore), and the recruitment of over 22,000 teachers.