Agartala, September 19, 2025: The issue of faculty shortage in Tripura’s higher educational institutions dominated the proceedings on the opening day of the 8th session of the 13th Legislative Assembly on Friday.
Higher Education Minister Kishor Barman, in a written reply to a question raised by CPIM MLA Sudip Sarkar, revealed that a total of 1,374 Assistant Professors, Associate Professors, and Professors are required in general, professional, and technical degree colleges across the state.
However, the existing strength stands at 1,654, which includes regular faculty, post-graduate teachers (PGTs), guest lecturers, and part-time lecturers.
Breaking down the figures, Barman informed that: In General Degree Colleges (UGC-recognized), the requirement is 1,208 in the ratio of students to subjects (60:1); currently 461 regular professors, 160 PGTs, and 654 guest lecturers. In Professional Colleges (NCTE-recognized), the requirement is 46 in the ratio of students to subjects (30:1); currently 53 regular professors, 15 PGTs, and 39 guest lecturers. And in Technical Colleges & Polytechnics (AICTE-recognized), the requirement is 120 in the ratio of students to subjects (25:1); currently 143 regular professors, 1 PGT, 85 lecturers, and 39 guest lecturers.
The reply triggered a series of supplementary questions from Opposition leaders, including Sudip Sarkar, Leader of Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury, and Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman. Sarkar demanded recruitment of NET, SLET, and PhD-qualified guest lecturers who are gradually becoming overage. Roy Barman alleged that despite UGC norms, only Master’s degree holders are being recruited, leaving NET/SLET/PhD-qualified candidates deprived.
LoP Chaudhury questioned the quality of education, stating, “Half of the faculties are permanent, while the rest are guest or part-time lecturers. For years higher education has continued this way. Will these vacancies ever be filled, and how long will it take?”
Chief Whip Kalyani Saha Roy also pressed for details on faculty recruitment during the previous Left Front regime of 30–35 years.
Responding, Minister Barman asserted that all recruitment processes are being carried out in strict adherence to University Grants Commission (UGC) norms.
