Chandigarh, January 12: Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria has suggested introducing uniforms for teachers in government schools in Chandigarh, citing the need for discipline, unity, and their role in shaping society.
The proposal was made during an event organized by the UT education department to distribute appointment letters to 68 newly recruited nursery teachers.
Addressing the gathering, Kataria emphasized the critical role teachers play in guiding children and setting examples.
“The respect that a Guru receives is unparalleled and serves as a reminder of the profound responsibility you hold in moulding the future,” he stated, adding that a uniform could symbolize teachers’ dedication and societal importance.
Harsuhinderpal Singh Brar, UT’s director of school education, welcomed the idea and announced plans to explore its implementation. “Uniforms will help teachers identify with their institution and promote equality. We will form a committee to decide on the design and other specifics,” he said.
Brar also noted that no other state or union territory has introduced such a concept, suggesting Chandigarh could pioneer this initiative.
The event also marked a significant boost to the pre-primary education system in the city, with 68 nursery teachers receiving appointment letters. Chandigarh currently has 97 schools offering pre-primary education to approximately 14,000 children.
With the new appointments, the number of nursery teachers has increased to 178, bringing the city closer to the sanctioned capacity of 250 teachers and improving the teacher-student ratio.
Recruitment for an additional 993 teaching positions is ongoing, with plans to complete the process by January 31. UT Chief Secretary Rajeev Verma, Education Secretary Prerna Puri, and other senior officials were present at the event.
Officials have been instructed to ensure timely distribution of appointment letters without delays.