Maharashtra government sanctions ₹5.14 crore to clear pending arrears for special teachers under the IEDSS programme | Representational Image
Mumbai: In a significant move, the Maharashtra government has sanctioned ₹5.14 crore to clear the long-pending arrears of 52 special teachers under the central government’s Inclusive Education for Disabled at Secondary Stage (IEDSS) programme. These arrears, which had remained unpaid for nearly a year, cover the period from November 2023 to August 2024.
The delay in payments had caused considerable financial distress to the educators, who play a crucial role in providing inclusive education to children with special needs. Despite the resolution of arrears for the period from April 2022 to October 2023, subsequent payments were stalled due to technical issues, leaving the educators waiting for their dues.
In response to persistent appeals from the Director of Education (Primary), Maharashtra State, Pune, the government finally approved the funds. The arrears will be distributed directly into the bank accounts of the respective educators. “Care will be taken to ensure no duplication of payments,” the government resolution stated, adding that any irregularities or errors will hold the Director of Education accountable.
Highlighting the plight of the affected educators, sources within the education department noted that delays in financial disbursements can disrupt the livelihood of professionals dedicated to the welfare of students with special needs. “This step comes as a relief for the educators who have been managing without salaries for an extended period,” said an official.
The funds for this initiative will be drawn from the state’s contribution to the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, as specified in the government’s financial plan for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The education department has also been instructed to submit a utilisation certificate within a month of the funds being disbursed and report any unspent amount to the government.
The move underscores the importance of addressing delays in financial processes, especially for schemes supporting inclusive education. While the immediate issue of arrears has been resolved, stakeholders urge the government to implement measures that prevent such delays in the future. “Timely payments are essential for ensuring educators can focus on their vital work without undue financial stress,” an education expert said.
