Maharashtra Cabinet To Appoint Three Part-Time Directors In Local Authority Schools With Over 100 Students

The Maharashtra Cabinet has approved the creation of a cadre of part-time directors in upper primary schools managed by local self-government bodies. As per the decision, schools with more than 100 enrolled students will appoint three part-time directors, each responsible for art, sports, and work experience.

The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. It follows a directive from the Bombay High Court and is based on the recommendations of a committee formed under the chairmanship of the Commissioner of Education. The committee was tasked with reviewing the appointment process, eligibility criteria, remuneration, and integration of part-time directors within the school system.

Under the approved policy, a permanent cadre will be established for part-time directors in eligible schools. The arrangement is intended to provide instructional support in non-academic areas, aligning with provisions of the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan. This centrally sponsored scheme, which will continue until 31 March 2026, will cover the honourarium for part-time directors during this period.

The Cabinet has authorised an expenditure of Rs85.80 crore to cover the remuneration of part-time directors for the next ten months. Each director will receive Rs12,000 per month for 48 instructional periods. Additional work beyond this threshold will be compensated at Rs200 per period, subject to a monthly cap of Rs18,000. Schools may also engage other qualified individuals at the same rate, if necessary.

Education experts have welcomed the decision, noting its alignment with broader educational objectives. “It’s still early to judge the full impact, but it’s good to see the government giving attention to non-academic subjects, which are an important part of a student’s overall learning,” said one of the experts.

The policy provides a framework for the consistent appointment and remuneration of part-time directors in upper primary schools under local authority jurisdiction. It standardises service conditions and supports instructional delivery in designated subject areas.