Agartala, July 23, 2025: A major controversy has erupted in Tripura after the recent teacher recruitment drive excluded candidates with degrees in ‘Education’ as a subject. The issue came to light after the state government announced recruitment for 915 Post Graduate Teacher (GT) posts under the School Education Department through the Teachers’ Recruitment Board, Tripura (TRBT).

The official notification mentioned eligibility for candidates who studied subjects like Bengali, English, Political Science, History, and others at the undergraduate level. However, the subject ‘Education’ was notably absent from the list, despite being taught in many degree colleges across the state.

This omission has caused a wave of resentment among thousands of educated unemployed youths who hold degrees in Education. They allege that the government has unfairly excluded them from applying for teaching positions in government schools. Many affected candidates have taken to social media and are preparing to file petitions demanding the inclusion of Education as an eligible subject.

Academicians and social organizations have also voiced concerns. They argue that subjects like Child Development, Educational Psychology, and the Philosophy and Sociology of Education are vital to the training of future teachers. The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) and the University Grants Commission (UGC) also recognize Education as a core subject for teacher training.

Dr. Manik Saha’s government has come under criticism, with experts calling this a violation of academic and recruitment norms. According to the rules, the Education subject is approved by NCTE under the D.El.Ed., B.Ed., and other teacher training programs, yet those with such qualifications are now left out.

Several affected aspirants, especially from tribal and rural backgrounds, argue that they have spent years preparing for these roles. They fear their career prospects have been jeopardized. Some have even claimed that the move goes against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of promoting employment and skill development among the youth.

The Tripura Board of Secondary Education (TBSE), which previously accepted Education as a valid subject for recruitment, has yet to clarify its stance. Meanwhile, district-level education officers and school inspectors have received complaints and appeals from students and youth organizations demanding immediate rectification.

The controversy continues to deepen, with opposition parties and civil society expected to escalate the matter. The affected candidates are now awaiting a response from the education department and the TRBT.