Teacher shotage in govt schools likely to reach 1 lakh by April 2026: KDA chief
The situation is set to worsen significantly, as an additional 36,000 teachers are slated to retire by April 2026, potentially pushing the total deficit to a staggering 1 lakh.
Addressing a press conference here on Thursday, Bilimale clarified that the teacher shortage is not confined to border areas but is a statewide issue. He noted that while 32,000 guest teachers are currently serving, with another 12,000 recently appointed, this measure offers only temporary relief.
"As KDA chairman, I have already brought this critical issue to the attention of chief minister Siddaramaiah and primary and secondary education minister Madhu Bangarappa," Bilimale stated. "I have also written articles on the matter. While I don't anticipate a complete resolution immediately, I will assure that priority will be given to border districts when appointments are made."
Kannada language implementation lauded
In a positive development, the Kannada scholar commended officials of the Belagavi City Corporation (BCC) for their diligent implementation of the govt's 60:40 language ratio mandate for boards and hoardings across the city.
"According to BCC officials, approximately 8,000 out of 10,000 such boards already adhere to the govt prescribed ratio. The remaining will be addressed in the coming days, and I have instructed them to achieve 100% compliance," Bilimale said.
He emphasized that the 60:40 ratio, which allows 40% space for other languages, is a model order that has been adopted by Odisha as well, following Karnataka's lead.
Pending issues and future plans
Regarding the demand for withdrawing the cases against Kannada activists, the KDA chief indicated that results could be seen within the next six months, citing previous discussions with CM Siddaramaiah.
He also promised to write to the govt requesting a budget allocation of Rs 2 crore for the Rajyotsava celebrations in Belagavi, an event that draws an estimated 6 to 7 lakh attendees.
Bilimale assured that he would appeal the govt to halt official ads and other facilities to non-Kannada newspapers in Belagavi, that publish content against Kannada language, Karnataka, and Kannadigas. He also directed BCC commissioner Shubha B to inspect the Gadi Bhavan in Vadagaon, which has been unused for many years, and initiate measures to make it functional.
Concerning the state-of-the-art Kannada Bhavan in Belagavi, for which the govt has invested Rs 7 crore, Bilimale confirmed that the DC has formed a special committee to oversee the building. "Measures will be taken to make the hall available at the lowest cost for Kannada-related activities," he promised.
Border development authority member Ashok Chandaragi, KDA nominated members Dakshayini Huded, and KDA secretary Santosh Hanagal were present. Prior to this, Bilimale and his team held meetings with leaders of pro-Kannada organisations and conducted review meetings on Kannada implementation at DC office and BCC office.
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