Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Mar 24: The J&K Saakshar Bharat Mission (JKSBM) Coordinators staged a protest today, demanding re-engagement and absorption into the Education Department.
Scores of Coordinators participated in the demonstration to highlight their longstanding and legitimate demands for regularization, job security and rightful recognition within the department.
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The protestors stated that despite diligently serving for over six to seven years, most coordinators have exceeded the upper age limit for alternative Government employment.
“As per recommendations from the State Project Director, Samagra Shiksha J&K, we appeal for their rightful absorption,” they said.
They further emphasized that 70% of the SBM workforce holds advanced qualifications, including M.Sc, M.A, B.Ed, M.Ed, M.Phil, NET, SET, Ph.D., and various technical degrees.
“Their contribution, experience, and expertise should be acknowledged and formalized,” they asserted.
According to the protestors, in 2019, the administration submitted a proposal for the regularization of SBM employees through Samagra Shiksha.
However, they lamented that “no concrete action has been taken to date, leaving these employees in limbo.”
Notably, the Saakshar Bharat Mission (SBM) was launched nationwide in 2009 by the Prime Minister with the vision of eradicating adult illiteracy and empowering women and marginalized communities.
In J&K, the scheme commenced in 2010 under the State Literacy Mission Authority (SLMA).
Recruitment was conducted transparently on a merit basis, following a rigorous selection process involving DDCs, CEOs, DIET Principals, and ZEOs.
The Coordinators expressed that they have rendered tireless service across DIET offices, ZEO offices, schools, and Adult Education Centres (AECs), spearheading grassroots literacy initiatives and community upliftment.
“Many are now struggling to sustain their families, facing severe mental distress, social humiliation, and financial insecurity. Particularly, female coordinators are experiencing societal pressures and family issues, as their identity as Government employees was central to their social standing,” the protestors added.
The JKSBM State Forum has urged the Lieutenant Governor, the Education Department and concerned authorities to intervene and expedite the absorption of SBM employees.
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