Deadline Approaches for BEd Primary Teachers to Enroll in Bridge Course

Primary teachers holding BEd degrees appointed before August 2023 must enroll in a bridge course by January 31 to secure their positions. This online course, developed by the NCTE, requires 90% attendance and a minimum passing score of 75%. With over 69,000 teachers already registered, the course aims to enhance teaching methodologies. The Supreme Court's recent ruling has made this course a necessity for those affected. Read on for detailed insights into the course structure and enrollment statistics.

By Ambika Singh Jan 24, 2026, 15:46 IST

BEd Bridge Course Update

Important Notice for Primary Teachers: Primary educators holding BEd degrees, who were appointed following the NCTE notification dated June 28, 2018, must act quickly as they have until January 31 to secure their positions. By applying for the six-month bridge course available on the NIOS portal, these teachers can complete the necessary training to retain their jobs. Notably, those appointed after this date are exempt from this requirement. Let's delve into the specifics of the course and the regulations involved.

Course Details and Requirements

Online Distance Learning Format:
Upon successful document verification and meeting eligibility criteria, candidates will be registered and provided with study materials. The course will be delivered through online distance learning, featuring live video lectures. Participants must maintain a 90% attendance rate and will undergo an assessment process. Following the examination, evaluations will be conducted by DIET and government intercolleges, which will take approximately ten days. A minimum score of 75% is required to pass. This bridge course was developed after extensive discussions over the past year, encompassing all essential components for effective primary teaching.

Official Statements

Insights from NCTE Chairman Prof. Pankaj Arora:
This bridge course is specifically for primary teachers appointed with BEd degrees between the NCTE notification date of June 28, 2018, and the Supreme Court ruling on August 11, 2023. Those appointed after this date are not eligible. This initiative is a one-time opportunity, and all states have been instructed to encourage BEd degree-holding primary teachers in their jurisdictions to register for the course.

Current Enrollment Statistics

NIOS Chairman Prof. Akhilesh Mishra Reports:
As of now, 69,281 in-service primary teachers have signed up for the bridge course. The highest registrations come from Uttar Pradesh (34,602), followed by Madhya Pradesh (10,872), Bihar (8,057), West Bengal (6,647), Himachal Pradesh (487), and Delhi (261). It is estimated that around 100,000 primary teachers nationwide are eligible for this bridge course, with the application deadline set for January 31.

Background of the Issue

Context of the NCTE Notification:
On June 28, 2018, the NCTE announced that individuals with BEd degrees could qualify as primary teachers, leading to widespread appointments. This decision faced legal challenges from the Primary Teachers' Association in the Jodhpur High Court, which ultimately rejected the NCTE notification. Subsequently, BEd degree holders who were appointed as primary teachers contested this ruling in the Supreme Court.

Supreme Court Ruling

Verdict Overview:
On August 11, 2023, the Supreme Court upheld the High Court's decision. An appeal was made, asserting that BEd degree holders appointed as primary teachers between 2018 and 2023 should be retained, while future appointments of BEd holders as primary teachers should be restricted. The Supreme Court accepted this appeal and mandated the NCTE to establish a bridge course to equip these teachers with the necessary educational methodologies for primary teaching by April 8, 2024.