Central Government Takes Action to Support Non-TET Qualified Teachers

The Supreme Court's ruling requiring all teachers to pass the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) has left many long-serving educators in limbo. In response, the central government is seeking detailed reports from states regarding teachers appointed before 2011, potentially offering relief to approximately 1.2 million teachers. With the CTET exam approaching and record applications being submitted, the focus is now on the government's decisions that could significantly impact the future of these educators. This article explores the implications of the ruling and the government's actions to address the concerns of teachers nationwide.

By Ambika Singh Jan 12, 2026, 11:42 IST

Supreme Court Ruling and Its Impact

In September 2025, the Supreme Court mandated that all educators must successfully complete the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET). This ruling has created uncertainty for many long-serving teachers who have not yet qualified. Teacher unions and representatives have persistently sought intervention from the central government, which has now taken a pivotal step that may offer hope to millions of educators.

Challenges Faced by Non-TET Qualified Teachers

The Supreme Court's ruling has significantly impacted countless primary school teachers nationwide. Many educators, who have dedicated years to teaching without passing the TET, are experiencing considerable stress as they juggle their teaching responsibilities with exam preparations. In response, teacher organizations have ramped up their calls for the central government to grant exemptions from the TET requirement.

Central Government Requests State Reports

The Ministry of Education's Department of School Education and Literacy has requested comprehensive reports from all states. They are seeking detailed information about teachers appointed before 2011 for grades 1 to 8. States must submit this data by January 16th, as outlined in a letter sent to Chief Secretaries on December 31st. The ministry is interested in knowing how many teachers were hired before and after 2011, how many have passed the TET or CTET, and how many have not. Additionally, they require information on the teachers' ages, educational backgrounds, and training.

Relief Expected for Millions of Teachers

This initiative by the central government is anticipated to benefit around 1.2 million teachers. For instance, Uttar Pradesh has approximately 186,000 teachers who have yet to pass the TET. In Rajasthan, about 80,000 third-grade teachers are affected, while Madhya Pradesh could see around 300,000 teachers in a similar situation. Jharkhand has reported that 27,000 primary teachers have not qualified.

Supreme Court's Key Decision

The Supreme Court's ruling stipulates that teachers must pass the TET within two years, or they may face job loss or retirement. However, those with only five years of service remaining have been granted some leniency.

Record Applications for CTET Exam

Due to this situation, the upcoming CTET exam on February 8, 2026, has seen an unprecedented number of applications, with over 2.5 million candidates registering. The focus now shifts to the forthcoming decisions from both central and state governments.