Convener News Desk
Bandipora, Jan 10: The Jammu & Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF), District Bandipora, has welcomed the decision of the District Administration Bandipora to invite nominations from teachers for the Republic Day Awards–2026, describing the move as inclusive and long overdue.
In a statement, the JKTF, which is affiliated with the All India Secondary School Federation, said the initiative is significant as it formally includes teachers from Primary and Middle School levels, alongside Senior Secondary faculty, for the first time in the district’s history.
Earlier, teacher awards were largely confined to higher levels, often overlooking the contribution of educators at the foundational stages of learning.
The Forum said recognition across all teaching levels would boost morale, encourage healthy competition and promote accountability and excellence within the education system.
Reacting to the development, JKTF Chief Spokesperson Anjum Nisar termed the decision a landmark moment for the teaching community.
He said Primary and Middle School teachers form the backbone of education and their recognition had remained neglected for years.
Nisar also recalled that the Forum had earlier raised concerns with the then Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, regarding what it described as flaws in the earlier award mechanism.
“In the past, awards were often given to individuals with minimal classroom engagement, while genuinely hardworking teachers were left out. We had sought a transparent, merit-based and inclusive process, and the present notification reflects that positive change,” he said.
The JKTF said such initiatives help restore confidence among teachers by ensuring that merit, dedication and actual academic contribution are recognised.
The Forum urged eligible teachers to actively participate in the nomination process and submit authentic documentation so that deserving educators receive due recognition.
The Forum expressed hope that the initiative would set a precedent for transparency, fairness and inclusivity in future academic recognitions in the district.
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