logo naukrinama

Odisha's Teacher Recruitment Board Faces Administrative Turmoil: What's Next?

The State Selection Board (SSB) in Odisha is currently facing a severe administrative crisis, with over half of its sanctioned positions vacant and no permanent board in place for more than three years. This interim arrangement raises concerns about the recruitment process's efficiency and credibility. With key decisions regarding examinations and recruitment management at stake, the need for a qualified academic leader is becoming increasingly urgent. As officials from other departments juggle additional responsibilities, the impact on the recruitment process is a growing concern. Discover the full details of this ongoing crisis and its implications for Odisha's education system.
By Ambika Singh Sep 9, 2026, 10:01 IST

Ongoing Crisis at the State Selection Board


SUCHISMITA SAHU, OP


Bhubaneswar: The State Selection Board (SSB) in Odisha, responsible for hiring teachers and lecturers, is currently grappling with a significant administrative crisis. Over 50% of its sanctioned positions remain unfilled, and the board has been operating without a permanent structure for more than three and a half years.


This interim setup has raised serious questions regarding the effectiveness and integrity of the recruitment process for educators in the state.


Since the retirement of Professor Daksha Prasad Nanda, the former permanent chairman, in March 2023, there has been no regular appointment to this crucial position. Professor Gangadhar Nayak temporarily filled the role until July 2024, after which Kaliprasanna Mahapatra, the Director of the Higher Education Department, took on the additional responsibilities.


While two additional secretary-level officers have been designated as vice-chairman and member alongside the acting chairman, this arrangement is not viewed as a viable replacement for a fully functional board. The day-to-day operations have increasingly relied on a single secretary.


The SSB is tasked with making vital decisions regarding recruitment exams, such as setting examination fees, determining the format of tests (online or offline), selecting exam centers, ensuring security, and managing sensitive aspects related to question papers.


There are calls for appointing a qualified academic to lead the SSB, similar to past practices where professors were chosen for their expertise in curriculum development, examination oversight, and maintaining recruitment standards.


Currently, officials from other departments are taking on additional roles, which limits their ability to focus entirely on the SSB. This situation has raised alarms about the potential repercussions on the management of examinations and the recruitment process.


FROM AROUND THE WEB