Bihar government approves agitating teachers demand for offline competency tests

• Bihar government approves the demand of protesting teachers for offline competency tests in addition to the existing online process
• Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary assures teachers that all their broader issues will be discussed with CM Nitish Kumar
• The decision aims to address concerns of working teachers facing difficulties with online exams and emphasizes the importance of continued improvements in school functioning

The Bihar government has acceded to the request of protesting teachers in the state by agreeing to conduct offline competency tests alongside the existing online evaluation process, as announced by Education Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary.

The decision, endorsed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, addresses the concerns raised by the agitating teachers, who have been seeking a more inclusive approach to competency assessments. Following the government's approval, a delegation of teachers engaged in discussions with Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, who pledged to address their broader issues and assured that no teacher would face job loss.

The acceptance of the demand means that in addition to the existing provision of three online competency tests, two offline tests will now be introduced for working teachers facing difficulties with online examinations. The competency tests remain a prerequisite for working teachers to maintain their status as government employees. Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary committed to discussing all concerns raised by the teachers with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar within the next two days.

Urging teachers not to be provoked, a representative emphasized the government's commitment to consider their interests. The representative highlighted the recent improvements in school functioning, particularly in remote areas, and emphasized the importance of maintaining this progress for the benefit of society, especially the underprivileged.